The History of Puerh Tea Trading

1. Song Dynasty: The “Tea-Horse market” in the “Bu-ri ministry” laid the foundation for Pu-erh. It facilitated trade between the Song Empire and Tibet, exchanging local tea for Tibetan horses, and silk, brocade, and jewelry from the Song Empire.
2. Yuan Dynasty: “Bu-ri” evolved into “pu-ri” under Mongol rule. Pu-erh tea expanded its trade network, even reaching Russia alongside meat and dairy.
3. Ming Dynasty: The Ming government took charge of Pu-erh tea trade, offering various Pu-erh varieties as tributes to the royal court.
4. Qing Dynasty: The government boosted Pu-erh trade through copper and salt mining, making Pu-erh a bustling center in southern Yunnan.
5. Tea-Horse Routes: Pu-erh connected four major tea-horse routes, promoting cultural and trade exchanges.
6. Late Qing Dynasty: Significant developments occurred, including the 211 km Tea Horse road from Yi-wu to Si-mao, paved with bluestone.
7. Early 20th Century: Post-revolution, Han and Dai traders established tea plantations, leading to thriving tea trade until border closures disrupted southern trade.
8. World War II: Pu-erh reached Japan and Western Europe markets during this period.
9. Post-war Era: Pu-erh trade prospered as it became a renowned center in Japan and Western Europe.
10. 1950s: The People’s Republic of China promoted old and new tea plantations, increasing production and international trade.
11. 1975: New Pu-erh factories produced various teas, available for sale within China and abroad.

Throughout its history, Pu-erh tea has played a pivotal role in trade and cultural exchange, continuing to be cherished and sought-after today.