'Gongcha' Import Blocked Due to Customs Issues... 'Oolong Tea' Sold Out for a Month

Import route blocked after recent issues found in customs clearance
Popular product... 'Milk Foam' with whipped milk also sold out

Gongcha Korea's 'Oolong Tea'. Photo by Gongcha Website

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Hyewon] Gongcha Korea is experiencing a shortage of Oolong Tea imported from Taiwan due to customs clearance issues, causing a supply disruption for over a month. With no clear timeline for resumption, stores nationwide are facing a frustrating situation.

According to the franchise industry on the 20th, Gongcha is currently unable to sell Oolong Tea products at over 800 stores nationwide (including franchises and directly operated stores). Gongcha has been importing Oolong Tea ingredients from Taiwan, but recently, a problem was discovered during the customs clearance process, blocking imports and causing supply difficulties.

A franchise owner A (in his 40s) operating a Gongcha franchise in Seocho-gu, Seoul said, "We have been importing well until now, but I heard that only this shipment was blocked at customs." He added, "Oolong Tea is one of the best-selling menu items, and when we inform customers that it is sold out, many turn away, which negatively affects sales. I hope the headquarters will work hard to resume supply as soon as possible," expressing his frustration.

The situation is similar at franchises in other regions. Employee B (in her 20s) working at a franchise in Jongno-gu, Seoul said, "Due to raw material supply issues, it is sold out," and added, "We are recommending Black Tea, which tastes the most similar to Oolong Tea."

Oolong Tea is a clear, deep amber-colored tea with floral and citrus fruit aromas. Known for its rich and deep fragrance and nutty flavor, Oolong Tea is one of the original teas that Gongcha sells by default. It is also one of the top-ranking popular products on Gongcha’s menu. With Oolong Tea sold out, the ‘Oolong Tea Milk Foam,’ which is Oolong Tea topped with milk foam, is also out of stock.

The headquarters is withholding the reason for the import rejection during the customs clearance process of Oolong Tea. However, a Gongcha representative stated, "We will make efforts to resume smooth sales as soon as the customs issues are resolved."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.