Vietnam has many types of trees that bring high export value, such as coffee, cassava, rubber, or cinnamon. Notably, thanks to nature’s favor, Vietnam also has a million-dollar tree, star anise. According to statistics, Vietnam’s star anise production ranks second in the world, after China, with an annual output of about 22,000 tons over an area of nearly 55,000 hectares.
Lang Son province accounts for 72.7% of the total area. Star anise tree here grows well due to its suitability for the soil and high terrain. The people of Lang Son are closely connected to the star anise forests from generation to generation. They plant once and harvest for hundreds of years.
Regarding the export situation, according to the Vietnam Pepper Association (VPA), Vietnam’s star anise exports in October reached 1,330 tons with a turnover of over 5.8 million USD, a significant increase of 88.9% compared to the last month. India was the largest export market in October with 903 tons, a strong increase of 121.3% compared to September.
Vietnam ranks second in the world for cinnamon production.
In the first 10 months of the year, Vietnam has exported 11,152 tons of star anise with an estimated turnover of 52.6 million USD, down 13.3% compared to the same period last year. India continues to be the main export market with 7,395 tons, accounting for 66.3%. The US ranks second with 411 tons, and China ranks third with 358 tons.
Star anise is almost only found in Vietnam and China, where it can be produced in large quantities due to favorable conditions. The star anise tree is available for harvest from the fourth year. But it takes about 16 years to harvest twice a year, making this tree even more valuable. The spring harvest is in February and March and the autumn harvest is in September and October.
According to the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association, star anise is one of the high-value agricultural products, favored not only domestically but also in many international markets. Thanks to its distinctive aroma and diverse uses in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries, Vietnam’s star anise has now established its position in the global market.
In recent years, the star anise export has made significant progress. Exporting enterprises have placed greater emphasis on improving product quality, applying modern production processes, and meeting international food safety standards. In addition, promoting research and development of processed products from star anise has also contributed to increasing export value.
India, Vietnam’s largest market, has a significant demand for cinnamon, star anise, and medicinal herbs. Currently, Vietnam dominates this market with over 80% of the import volume.
The US has a large, diverse population and consumer demand for specialty products with health benefits. Therefore, Vietnam’s cinnamon and star anise are potential products. Another potential market for importing cinnamon and star anise from Vietnam is Pakistan, where there is high demand for these spices and medicinal herbs.