Farmers harvest fresh tea leaves on Tiantai Mountain in Taizhou. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfb001]

The first batch of spring tea was harvested in the high-altitude core areas of Tiantai Mountain in Taizhou, East China's Zhejiang province, in late March.

Tiantai Yunwu tea has a history of over 1,000 years and is known for its favorable growing conditions, including high humidity, abundant rainfall, and mountainous terrain. Once a traditional crop, it has now become a key driver of local income. By 2025, tea plantations covered 6,866 hectares, with output exceeding 3,200 metric tons and total industry value surpassing 1.2 billion yuan ($174 million), supporting more than 30,000 workers.

In recent years, local authorities have promoted centralized processing and branding to improve market access. Integrated tea workshops that combine processing and sales have helped farmers expand distribution channels and increase their incomes. In some regions, the average annual income of tea farmers has exceeded 30,000 yuan.

The industry is also exploring new products to enhance added value. Innovations such as tea-based beverages and diversified product lines have been introduced to reach broader markets.

At the same time, the integration of tea and tourism has generated new growth opportunities. Visitors can experience tea picking, processing, and related cultural activities, which attract over 100,000 tourist visits each year.

With continued efforts in branding, technological innovation, and cultural integration, Tiantai is further strengthening its tea industry and expanding its presence in both domestic and international markets.