Matcha Trend Expands Across Cambodia and UAE Cafés

In Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Japanese ceremonial matcha has moved from specialty cafés to street stalls, becoming a staple of the city’s coffee scene. Imported powder from Japan is in high demand, driving up prices as Japanese growers face labor shortages and climate challenges.

Across the United Arab Emirates, cafés are keeping the matcha craze fresh by introducing tropical, dessert‑inspired and vividly coloured summer drinks such as caramel shortbread matcha, blue sky matcha and tropical fruit blends. The beverage’s versatility is credited with sustaining its popularity beyond an initial fad.