VietGlobal Export: Delivering Premium Vietnamese Cassia Cinnamon Worldwide

Vietnam accounts for 17% of the world’s cinnamon area, with approximately 180,000 hectares. In addition, Vietnam is the third-largest producer and exporter of cinnamon globally in terms of volume, following Indonesia and China, with Cassia being the main exported type. In the following article, let’s explore the unique characteristics of Vietnamese Cinnamon with Vietglobal Export.

1. The Unique Characteristics of Vietnamese Cinnamon – Cassia Cinnamon

Cinnamon, also known as the cinnamon tree, is a spice with a long history and presence in many cultures worldwide. Since ancient Egypt, cinnamon has been used as a rare and valuable spice. In culinary traditions, cinnamon is widely used in various dishes and beverages to create a distinctive flavor. However, not all cinnamon is the same. The two main types of cinnamon on the market today are Cassia and Ceylon, each with unique characteristics.

Distinguishing Cassia Cinnamon from Ceylon Cinnamon

• • Cassia Cinnamon: This is the most common type of cinnamon, originating from Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. Cassia cinnamon has a dark reddish-brown color, thicker and harder bark than Ceylon cinnamon. Its flavor is stronger and spicier, often used in dishes that require a bold cinnamon taste. The coumarin content in Cassia cinnamon is relatively high, which can be harmful if used excessively, but when used properly, it offers numerous health benefits.

• • Ceylon Cinnamon: Also known as “true cinnamon,” it originates from Sri Lanka. Ceylon cinnamon is lighter in color, with thinner and softer bark compared to Cassia cinnamon. Its flavor is milder, sweeter, and more complex, making it suitable for delicate dishes. The coumarin content in Ceylon cinnamon is very low, making it safer for regular use.

Description of Vietnamese Cinnamon

Vietnam is one of the leading countries in cultivating and exporting Cassia cinnamon. Vietnamese Cassia cinnamon stands out with its strong, spicy flavor and high essential oil content. These are crucial factors that make Vietnamese cinnamon highly sought after in the international market. Vietnamese Cassia cinnamon is typically harvested from trees that are 15 to 20 years old, when the bark has reached the ideal thickness and the essential oil content is at its peak.

Cultivation and Harvesting of Vietnamese Cinnamon

Cinnamon cultivation in Vietnam is primarily concentrated in the northern and central mountainous provinces, where the climate and soil are favorable for cinnamon growth. The process of growing cinnamon requires patience and advanced techniques. Cinnamon trees are often planted on high hills, where the soil is loose and well-drained.

Harvesting cinnamon is a complex task that must be done at the right time to ensure quality. Farmers usually choose dry days to scrape the cinnamon bark. After harvesting, the cinnamon bark is naturally dried under the sun, then cut into small pieces or rolled up for storage and transportation.

Health Benefits of Vietnamese Cinnamon

Vietnamese Cassia cinnamon is not only favored for its flavor but also for the health benefits it offers. Here are some notable benefits:

• • Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties: Cinnamon contains powerful antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.

• • Digestive Support: Cinnamon helps stimulate digestion, reducing bloating and indigestion.

• • Blood Sugar Regulation: Some studies have shown that cinnamon can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, particularly beneficial for people with diabetes.

• • Immune System Boost: Cinnamon has antibacterial and antiviral properties, helping the body fight infections.

2. The Potential of Vietnamese Cassia Cinnamon in the Global Market

Vietnamese Cinnamon Export Statistics

Currently, Vietnamese cinnamon is exported to nearly 100 countries worldwide, accounting for 95% of the market share in India, 36.5% in the U.S., and 35% in the European market. Vietnamese cinnamon products have dominated most major markets globally. According to statistics, in the first five months of 2024, Vietnam exported 33,528 tons of cinnamon, with a total export value of USD 96.3 million, a decrease of 1.1% in volume and 4.4% in value compared to the same period last year.

Besides exporting to traditional markets like the U.S., the EU, and Japan, Vietnamese cinnamon is also expanding into many potential markets, showcasing the competitiveness and market diversification of Vietnamese cinnamon.

Development Potential

With the growing demand for natural and organic products, Vietnamese Cassia cinnamon is poised for significant growth in the global market. Especially as cinnamon is used not only in the food industry but also in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and healthcare industries, new opportunities are emerging. Additionally, the focus on improving quality and expanding export markets will continue to drive the growth of the Vietnamese cinnamon industry in the future.

With 16 FTAs (Free Trade Agreements) that Vietnam is a part of, including new-generation agreements like EVFTA, CPTPP, and CREP, Vietnam enjoys tax advantages over some other countries. This presents a favorable condition and opportunity for Vietnamese cinnamon products to expand further into international markets.

3. Challenges Facing the Vietnamese Cinnamon Industry and Solutions for Sustainable Development

Quality Standards

Despite its potential, the Vietnamese cinnamon industry still faces several challenges, particularly in ensuring quality and meeting international standards. One of the biggest challenges is controlling the coumarin content in Cassia cinnamon, a compound that can be harmful if used excessively. To export to demanding markets like the EU and the U.S., Vietnamese cinnamon must strictly adhere to quality standards such as:

• • ISO 22000: Food safety management standards.

• • HACCP: Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points system.

• • Organic Certification: Ensuring that cinnamon is grown and harvested without chemicals.

Solutions for Sustainable Development

To overcome these challenges and develop sustainably, the Vietnamese cinnamon industry should focus on the following solutions:

• • Applying Advanced Technology and Techniques: Using sustainable farming methods to minimize environmental impact and enhance production efficiency.

• • Training and Supporting Farmers: Providing farmers with the necessary knowledge and skills to improve product quality and comply with international standards.

• • Building Brands and Expanding Markets: Increasing promotion and building the Vietnamese cinnamon brand in the international market while expanding into new markets.

VietGlobal’s Commitment to Delivering High-Quality Cinnamon Products to Global Customers

VietGlobal Export is dedicated to providing top-quality cinnamon products to customers worldwide.  We are committed to providing an exceptional buying experience. By managing the entire supply chain efficiently, we help customers save time and reduce costs, making the purchasing process straightforward and hassle-free.

Below are the six types of cinnamon that VietGlobal is currently exporting, along with their specifications: