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Yumika Arita, the first "Turkish tea brewing master" in Japan, showcased her skills by brewing and serving Turkish tea to guests in Rize, the heart of Turkish tea production. Arita's visit is part of a promotional initiative under the Turquality Promotion Project, coordinated by the Ministry of Trade and the Eastern Black Sea Exporters Association (DKIB).
The event is the outcome of a Turkish tea brewing competition held in Japan from Dec. 11 to 13, 2024. Competitors who excelled in the contest were invited to Rize to experience Turkish tea culture firsthand. Arita, the competition’s top tea master, displayed her expertise at the Cay Carsisi (Tea Market), where she prepared and served Turkish tea to an eager audience.
Speaking to reporters, DKIB Vice Chairman Saban Turgut emphasized their commitment to promoting locally grown products in international markets.
"Tea is very precious to us. We are constantly working on how to market our tea better in foreign markets through events like this," Turgut said.
Zafer Ertem, project manager, expressed satisfaction in welcoming Japanese competitors to Rize, while Hasan Onder, general manager of Rize Cay Carsisi, highlighted his experience as a jury member in Japan.
"We are showcasing the Turkish tea culture, including its history and preparation methods, to our Japanese guests. We believe Turkish tea has significant potential in the Japanese market," Onder stated.
Japanese tea master Yumika Arita expressed her admiration for Turkish tea and its unique culture.
"I was surprised to learn that Türkiye is the world's largest tea consumer. Turkish tea culture is amazing, and I believe Japanese people will love it too," she said.
Arita plans to spend a few days in Rize exploring tea gardens and deepening her understanding of Turkish tea production.
Sharing her knowledge of Turkish tea preparation, Arita offered essential tips:
"To brew perfect Turkish tea, you must start with a heartfelt intention. The water temperature is crucial—85-90°C is ideal, not boiling at 100°C. After brewing, a 15-minute steeping time is essential for the perfect flavor."
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