Our History
For over 80 years, ChaTraMue has been a beloved tea brand in Thailand, passed down from generation to generation. As a pioneer in the Thai tea industry, our mission has always been to share the rich flavor and culture of Thai tea with the world.
Our guiding principle is simple: honesty and dedication to quality. Every cup is crafted from carefully selected tea leaves, produced through our unique manufacturing process and high-standard factory management. This commitment ensures that Thai people—and tea lovers everywhere—can enjoy the authentic taste of ChaTraMue.
1920
The third brother of the family’s patriarch, Sa Pae, led his eight siblings from Chaozhou, China to settle in Thailand.
1925
Sa Pae opened a Chinese tea shop called Lim Meng Keeat on Chalermburi, Yaowarat Road. Tea products were imported from China—marking the beginning of the family’s tea business.
WORLD WAR 2
After nearly 20 years of successful operations, the shop was damaged during the bombing of World War II. The business relocated to Soi Padungdao, Yaowarat, continuing to sell Chinese teas such as Oolong and green tea. During this period, red tea was also introduced.
1945 – The Beginning of ChaTraMue
As Thailand’s tropical climate made hot Chinese tea less popular, the shop introduced red tea blends for Thai Milk Tea and Thai Black Tea—both served over ice. The brand name ChaTraMue (“Number One Brand Thai Tea”) was born, and 1945 became the official founding year.
1945 - 1965
Originally, tea leaves in Thailand were mostly used for local dishes such as tea leaf–wrapped appetizers. Over time, Thai people began making their own tea, developing it into what is now known as Thai tea. Mr. Ting, the shop manager, was among the pioneers who opened a tea factory on Wawee Hill, Mae Suai District, Chiang Rai. Known as the “Cha Hom Factory” (Aromatic Tea Factory), heavy tea machinery was transported up the hill with the help of elephants.
1965 - 1981
Due to the difficulties of travel and factory management at Wawee Hill, operations there ceased. Instead, the shop established a tea purchasing network with local tea planters.
1989
Recognizing the potential of Chiang Rai and surrounding tea-growing areas, the current owner established a new facility in Wiang Pa Pao District, Chiang Rai: the Siam Tea Factory, now officially registered as Cha Thai International Company Limited.
FROM THE PAST TO THE PRESENT
From the humble Lim Meng Kee tea shop to Cha Thai International Company Limited, we have built over 60 years of experience in crafting Thai tea. ChaTraMue – Number One Brand Thai Tea is known for its unique recipes and meticulous production process, creating a beloved taste enjoyed by generations of Thai people and tea lovers worldwide.
Today, we continue to innovate, offering varieties such as Green Tea, Milk Green Tea, Rose Tea, and more. Our factories uphold the highest standards, including GMP Codex and Halal certification, to ensure the consistent quality and flavor our customers trust—at a reasonable price.