Star anise, one of the rarest spices in the world, has long been a source of pride for Vietnamese agricultural products. According to the World Spice Association, Vietnam is currently one of the leading countries in star anise production. This type of tree not only has high economic value but is also considered a “natural treasure” and a rare specialty that very few countries in the world can cultivate.
With its specific climatic and soil conditions, the star anise tree grows strongly in the Northeast region of Vietnam, mainly in Lang Son and Cao Bang. This creates a unique competitive advantage, making Vietnamese star anise a favorable product to many countries, from Asia to Europe.
In 2023, Vietnam’s star anise export achieved a total production of over 16,000 tons and an export turnover of 83 million USD, marking a 26% growth compared to the last year. Although the average export price slightly decreased to 6,376 USD/ton, star anise still maintained its strong appeal in major markets such as India and China, accounting for nearly 75% of total export volume.
China imports thousands of tons of star anise each year from Vietnam.
Vietnamese star anise holds an important position in the global spice supply chain. This product contributes to export turnover and provides a stable income for thousands of households, helping to develop the local economy sustainably.
Star anise is a medium-sized tree that grows to a height of 2–6 meters, with a straight trunk and green foliage year-round. If it is cared for well, the star anise tree will start to bloom after four years.
In a year, star anise blooms twice, usually in June and from August to September. The yield of the star anise tree gradually increases over time, from 0.5–1 kg/tree in the early stages to 40–50 kg/tree when the tree matures, usually from the 20th year onwards. With each harvest cycle, star anise brings high economic value, creating an important resource for Vietnam’s agricultural sector.
Star anise plays a significant role in culinary and medicinal practices. This flower has a distinctive fragrance and is often used as a spice in traditional dishes such as pho, stews, or sauces.
Star anise is a valuable ingredient in the fields of medicine and the cosmetics industry. Star anise oil, extracted from star anise fruit, is a key ingredient in many types of massage oils, digestive preparations, and health care products.
Traditional medicine uses star anise to stimulate digestion, relieve abdominal pain, and support the treatment of intestinal diseases. As early as the beginning of the 20th century, the French recognized this value and built a star anise oil processing factory in Lang Son, turning this precious resource into a high-value product. Today, star anise essential oil not only meets domestic demand but is also exported to many countries, contributing to the commercial value of the product.
To protect and develop this rare tree, since 2007, star anise has been recognized by the Vietnam Intellectual Property Office as a geographical indication, affirming that it is a national asset that needs to be strictly protected. Building a brand for star anise not only aims to increase its economic value but also contributes to the preservation of a potential characteristic tree for the country.
With prices ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 VND/kg in the domestic market, star anise continues to prove its value not only in the economy but also in its uses from cuisine and medicine to the processing industry.
Overall, star anise is a symbol of the intersection between tradition and modernity, between natural value and economic potential. This tree not only represents Vietnamese agriculture but also the sustainable development potential of local specialty products.