2025 Yunnan Raw Pu’er Tea Market Research (In progress)
Been doing some research on loose leaf prices in China - I wanted to use this as a general refence to see if I’m getting ripped off either. Will add to this over time as I have access to more sources. I have another page for BingDao specifically because some redditers were asking Bingdao pricing guide.
NOTE this is NOWHERE near complete. Been collecting data for myself and will add to this over time. USE at your own RISK
⚠️ AI Assistance Disclaimer: This content was created with the assistance of AI for research compilation, data organization, and formatting. While the underlying price data comes from cited Chinese sources, readers should verify information independently and use this as a general reference only.
Detailed Price Guide by Region
This section provides a detailed breakdown of 2025 spring raw Pu-erh mao cha prices across Yunnan’s major tea-producing regions. Prices are presented in RMB/kg and reflect data collected from various Chinese sources. It’s important to note that prices can fluctuate based on specific micro-terroir, tree age (ancient tree, big tree, small/medium tree, arbor), and processing quality.
I. Xishuangbanna Region
Xishuangbanna is a renowned Pu-erh tea region, home to some of the most famous and sought-after tea mountains. The prices in this region often reflect the historical significance and unique characteristics of its teas.
Lao Banzhang (老班章): Often referred to as the “King of Pu-erh,” Lao Banzhang continues to command high prices due to its scarcity and strong brand recognition. While some sources indicate a slight decrease from 2024, it remains a premium investment [2].
| Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Tree | 9,000 - 15,600 | [2], [3], [4], [5] |
| Big Tree | 5,000 - 8,000 | [2], [4] |
| Mixed | 7,000 - 8,500 | [3] |
| Selected | 11,000 - 12,000 | [3] |
| Small Tree | 1,500 | [4] |
Yiwu Sub-Region (易武): The Yiwu mountains are celebrated for their elegant aroma and silky texture. Prices in Yiwu vary significantly by micro-garden and tree age, reflecting the user’s feedback. Broad groupings can be misleading, and a more granular approach is necessary.
| Village/Micro-Garden | Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bohetang (薄荷塘) | Class 1 Ancient Tree | 24,000 - 40,000 | [2], [3], [4] |
| Bohetang (薄荷塘) | Class 2 / Mixed / Big Tree | 12,000 - 28,000 | [2], [3], [4] |
| Bohetang (薄荷塘) | Small Tree | 2,000 | [4] |
| Mansong (曼松) | Ancient Tree | 1,800 - 122,000 | [2], [4], [5] |
| Mansong (曼松) | Arbor | 2,600 - 2,800 | [3] |
| Mansong Royal Tribute | Unspecified | 50,000 | [3] |
| Wangong (弯弓) | Unspecified | 4,300 | [3] |
| Wangong Fenghuangwo | Unspecified | 10,000 | [3] |
| Guafengzhai (刮风寨) | Unspecified | 3,200 - 4,000 | [3] |
| Guafengzhai Lengshuihe | Unspecified | 9,000 | [3] |
| Guafengzhai Chawangshu | Unspecified | 7,500 | [3] |
| Tongqinghe (铜箐河) | Ancient Tree | 5,000 - 6,000 | [3] |
| Tongqinghe (铜箐河) | Big Tree | 800 - 900 | [3] |
| Mahei (麻黑) | Big Tree | 1,200 - 1,400 | [3] |
| Mahei (麻黑) | Unspecified | 2,400 - 2,800 | [3] |
| Yibang (倚邦) | Ancient Tree | 2,200 - 3,500 | [3] |
| Yibang (倚邦) | Small Tree | 700 | [3] |
| Manzhuan (蛮砖) | Ancient Tree | 1,200 - 1,800 | [3] |
| Manzhuan (蛮砖) | Big Tree | 400 | [3] |
| Hekai (贺开) | Unspecified | 1,000 - 1,300 | [3] |
| Youle (攸乐) | Ancient Tree | 1,200 - 1,600 | [3] |
| Youle (攸乐) | Arbor | 300 - 400 | [3] |
| Nannuoshan (南糯山) | Banpo Laozhai | 1,200 - 1,300 | [3] |
| Nannuoshan (南糯山) | Duoyizhai | 1,900 | [3] |
| Nannuoshan (南糯山) | Guniangzhai | 800 | [3] |
Menghai Sub-Region (勐海): This area is known for its strong, often bitter-based teas with a rapid sweet aftertaste.
| Village/Micro-Garden | Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xin Banzhang (新班章) | Mixed | 2,500 - 3,500 | [3] |
| Xin Banzhang (新班章) | Selected | 4,500 - 6,000 | [3] |
| Banpen Laozhai (班盆老寨) | Ancient Tree | 2,400 - 2,600 | [3] |
| Lao Man’e (老曼峨) | Ancient Tree | 2,200 - 2,300 | [3] |
| Lao Man’e (老曼峨) | Big Tree | 1,500 | [3] |
| Pasha (帕沙) | Ancient Tree | 1,500 - 2,000 | [3] |
| Pasha (帕沙) | Big Tree | 900 | [3] |
| Naka (那卡) | Ancient Tree | 2,500 - 3,000 | [3] |
| Naka (那卡) | Big Tree | 1,300 | [3] |
II. Lincang Region
Lincang is famous for its teas with a distinct “rock sugar sweetness” and “alpine wildness.”
Bingdao Core Villages (冰岛): Bingdao is one of the most prestigious tea mountains. The user specifically highlighted the need for accurate information on Bingdao villages. The ImperfecTea article incorrectly listed “Bingdao Nanno,” which should be Nanpo. Here, we include prices for Laozhai, Nanpo, Dijie, Bawai, and Nuowu.
| Village | Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bingdao Laozhai (冰岛老寨) | Ancient Tree | 26,000 - 95,000 | [2], [3], [5] |
| Bingdao Laozhai (冰岛老寨) | Ancient Tree Class 1 | 56,000 - 70,000 | [3] |
| Bingdao Laozhai (冰岛老寨) | Ancient Tree Class 2 | 28,000 - 35,000 | [3] |
| Bingdao Laozhai (冰岛老寨) | Big Tree | 7,000 - 8,000 | [3] |
| Bingdao Laozhai (冰岛老寨) | Mixed / Big Tree | 20,000 - 35,000 | [2] |
| Bingdao Laozhai (冰岛老寨) | Small/Medium Tree | 3,500 - 4,000 | [3] |
| Nanpo (南迫) | Ancient Tree | 4,500 - 6,500 | [3] |
| Nanpo (南迫) | Small/Medium Tree | 2,000 | [3] |
| Dijie (地界) | Ancient Tree | 5,500 - 6,000 | [3] |
| Dijie (地界) | Small/Medium Tree | 1,600 | [3] |
| Bawai (坝歪) | Ancient Tree | 2,300 - 2,600 | [3] |
| Bawai (坝歪) | Small/Medium Tree | 1,000 | [3] |
| Nuowu (糯伍) | Ancient Tree | 2,000 - 2,200 | [3] |
| Nuowu (糯伍) | Small/Medium Tree | 800 | [3] |
Mengku East/West Mountains (勐库): This sub-region offers a variety of teas with fragrant and layered liquors.
| Village/Micro-Garden | Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaohusai (小户赛) | Ancient Tree | 1,900 - 2,200 | [3] |
| Xiaohusai (小户赛) | Medium Tree | 700 - 800 | [3] |
| Xiaohusai (小户赛) | Unspecified | 1,500 | [3] |
| Molie (磨烈) | Ancient Tree | 3,600 - 6,200 | [2], [5] |
| Molie (磨烈) | Unspecified | 2,800 - 3,500 | [3] |
| Molie Lushuitang (磨烈绿水塘) | Unspecified | 3,500 | [3] |
| Zhengqitang (正气塘) | Unspecified | 1,000 - 1,600 | [3] |
| Dahusai (大户赛) | Ancient Tree | 1,200 - 1,500 | [3] |
| Dahusai (大户赛) | Big Tree | 500 - 650 | [3] |
Xigui (昔归): Xigui is a well-known tea mountain in Lincang. Prices for Xigui have seen some rational回调 (pullback) after previous speculation [2].
| Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Tree | 7,000 - 11,000 | [2], [5] |
| Unspecified | 8,000 | [3] |
III. Pu’er City Region
Pu’er City is characterized by teas with excellent aging potential and orchid notes.
Jingmai Heritage Zone (景迈): Jingmai Mountain’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site has significantly impacted its market value, leading to a continuous price increase [2]. The user’s feedback regarding Xiaohusai being more expensive than Jingmai Dapingzhang is addressed here. Based on the collected data, Xiaohusai (Ancient Tree: 1,900-2,200 RMB/kg, Unspecified: 1,500 RMB/kg) and Jingmai Dapingzhang (Unspecified: 1,500 RMB/kg) have overlapping price ranges, with some Xiaohusai ancient tree prices being higher.
| Village/Micro-Garden | Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jingmai Mountain (景迈山) | Ancient Tree | 10,000 - 18,000 | [2], [5] |
| Jingmai Dapingzhang (景迈大平掌) | Unspecified | 1,500 | [3] |
| Jingmai Dapingzhang (景迈大平掌) | Single Tree | 2,500 | [3] |
Kunlu Mountain (困鹿山): Known for its unique orchid fragrance, Kunlu Mountain has become an emerging investment hotspot [2].
| Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Tree | 12,000 - 45,000 | [2], [4], [5] |
| Unspecified (Non-Royal Tea Garden) | 800 | [3] |
Fenghuangwo (凤凰窝): This area is known for its sweet and delicate taste.
| Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Tree | 12,000 - 30,000 | [2], [4], [5] |
IV. Other Notable Regions and Emerging Areas
Mojiang Midi Gongcha Garden (墨江米地贡茶园): This small micro-region has seen the largest price increase in 2025 due to its unique “honey floral aroma” and scarcity [2].
| Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Tree | 76,000 | [2], [4] |
| Mixed / Big Tree | 35,000 | [4] |
| Small Tree | 1,200 | [4] |
Dali Baotaishan (大理宝台山): Known for its “mountain wilderness charm,” attracting niche collectors [2].
| Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Tree | 4,800 - 6,800 | [2], [5] |
Chuxiong Tujie Town (楚雄兔街镇): An emerging region with more accessible prices [2].
| Tea Type | Price Range (RMB/kg) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Tree | 1,800 - 3,600 | [2], [5] |
| Banpo Wangtianpo | 1,200 - 3,000 | [5] |
Factors Influencing Price
Pu-erh tea prices are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, extending beyond basic supply and demand:
- Terroir and Micro-climate: The specific geographical location, soil composition, altitude, and climate of a tea mountain significantly impact the tea’s flavor profile and, consequently, its market value. Renowned terroirs like Lao Banzhang and Bingdao consistently command higher prices due to their unique and desirable characteristics.
- Tree Age: The age of the tea tree is a primary determinant of price. Ancient tea trees (古树茶) are highly valued for their deep roots, rich mineral absorption, and complex flavor development. Prices typically decrease from ancient trees to big trees (大树茶), small/medium trees (中小树), and finally to plantation teas (台地茶).
- Processing Techniques: The skill and care involved in processing the mao cha also play a crucial role. Proper processing ensures the tea’s quality and its potential for aging.
- Market Demand and Speculation: The Pu-erh market has historically been subject to speculation, particularly for rare and highly sought-after teas. Brand recognition, collector demand, and investment potential can drive prices beyond their intrinsic value.
- Yield and Weather Conditions: As observed in 2025, adverse weather conditions during the spring harvest can reduce yields, leading to price increases for affected regions. Conversely, good harvests can stabilize or even lower prices.
- Authentication and Provenance: The authenticity of Pu-erh tea is critical. Consumers are increasingly seeking teas with verifiable origins and clear provenance, which adds to their value. The “Yunnan Tea Price Index” and similar initiatives aim to improve transparency and reduce counterfeit products [5].
Conclusion
The 2025 spring Pu-erh tea market reflects a maturing industry where quality, authenticity, and provenance are increasingly valued. While premium ancient tree teas continue to hold their strong positions, the market is also adapting to changing consumer preferences and the influence of new sales channels. For both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts, understanding these dynamics is key to navigating the diverse and fascinating world of Pu-erh tea. The detailed price information and analysis provided in this report, drawing from multiple Chinese sources, aim to offer a more accurate and comprehensive guide for the 2025 spring harvest.
Citations
[2] Weibo. (2023, February 12). 2025年云南省普洱茶产区主要村落毛料价格 [2025 Yunnan Province Pu-erh Tea Producing Areas Main Village Raw Material Prices]. Retrieved from https://weibo.com/ttarticle/p/show?id=2309404868349892100113
[3] Zhihu. (2025, April 30). 2025年古树头春普洱茶叶价格一览表发布 [2025 Ancient Tree First Spring Pu-erh Tea Price List Released]. Retrieved from https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/1900684827084169888
[4] Sohu. (2025, April 28). 2025年云南著名山头春茶价格发布 最高76000元/公斤 [2025 Yunnan Famous Mountain Spring Tea Prices Released, Highest 76000 Yuan/kg]. Retrieved from https://www.sohu.com/a/889978580_121443915
[5] China Daily. (2025, April 8). 2025年云南省1405个村寨春茶预报价 [2025 Yunnan Province 1405 Villages Spring Tea Pre-quotation]. Retrieved from https://caijing.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202504/08/WS67f4bdb3a310e29a7c4a80f5.html
Here is a Weibo Post on 2024 prices (thanks to jan-tea on reddit for this post)
💡 Pro Tip: For premium experience at 50-70% discount, explore “second-tier” gems like Mengku Zhengitang (勐库正气塘, 1,200 RMB/kg) or Guangbie Laozhai (广别老寨, 1,600 RMB/kg)
_Data is still being collected, there are quite a few conflicting sources so I need to find a good way to merge them. See feedback on this thread on reddit. https://www.reddit.com/r/puer/comments/1ltlsy0/raw_pu_erh_loose_leaf_prices_in_2025_general _