Vietnam’s Star Anise Export Soars: A Billion-Dollar Blossom
At VietGlobal Export, we take pride in Vietnam’s position as a leading global supplier of premium spices. Among them, star anise—often called the “billion-dollar blossom”—has solidified its place as one of the country’s most valuable spice exports. As we close the chapter on 2024, let’s take a look at how Vietnam’s star anise industry has flourished and what lies ahead.
Vietnam: The World’s Second-Largest Star Anise Exporter
Vietnam has long been recognized as a powerhouse in the global spice trade, with over 500,000 hectares of spice plantations and a network of 400 enterprises and thousands of small-scale farmers actively engaged in production and export. Among the many spices that contribute to this thriving industry, star anise stands out as a major revenue driver, earning Vietnam the position of the world’s second-largest exporter after China.
According to data from the Vietnam Pepper Association (VPA), in December 2024 alone, Vietnam exported 1,705 tons of star anise, generating $6.2 million in revenue. This represents an impressive 48.6% increase compared to November 2024. India remained the largest importer, accounting for 72.5% of the total exports, with 1,236 tons, marking a 72.4% growth month-over-month.
2024: A Year of Strong Performance
Throughout 2024, Vietnam exported a total of 14,004 tons of star anise, accumulating $63.7 million in revenue. Despite a 5.7% decline in volume and a 16.2% drop in export value compared to 2023, the industry remains robust.
This follows a record-breaking 2023, where Vietnam exported 16,136 tons, earning $83 million. With India continuing to drive demand for Vietnam’s star anise, the outlook for 2025 remains optimistic, especially with increased attention on sustainable farming and expanded international partnerships.
Vietnam’s Competitive Edge in Star Anise Production
Vietnam and China are the only two countries capable of producing star anise at large-scale commercial levels, thanks to their ideal climate and soil conditions. Vietnam ranks second globally, with an annual output of approximately 22,000 tons, cultivated across 55,000 hectares of land, primarily in Lạng Sơn, Quảng Ninh, and Cao Bằng provinces.
Star anise trees flourish in Vietnam’s unique environment, growing 2-6 meters in height and bearing fruit twice a year:
- Spring Harvest (June): Produces star anise with a slightly milder aroma, often used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
- August Harvest (August-September): Yields higher-grade star anise preferred for culinary and export markets due to its strong fragrance and high oil content.
The Expanding Global Demand for Star Anise
Vietnam’s star anise is highly sought after for its distinctive licorice-like aroma and versatile applications in food, beverages, medicine, and cosmetics. Key markets include:
- India: The largest buyer, importing star anise for culinary, medicinal, and Ayurvedic applications.
- Europe & the US: Increasing demand for organic, high-quality spices.
- Middle East & Southeast Asia: Expanding consumption in traditional and herbal medicine.
A 2021 market study by SNV (Netherlands Development Organization) highlighted Vietnam’s natural advantages in star anise production, including optimal climate, high-yield trees, and strong government support for agricultural development. These factors have helped establish Vietnam as a trusted supplier of premium-quality star anise to global markets.
Sustainable Growth & Future Outlook
To maintain its leadership in the star anise trade, Vietnam is focusing on:
- Expanding organic farming practices to meet international quality standards.
- Enhancing processing techniques to preserve flavor and essential oil content.
- Building strong trade relationships with emerging markets.
- Investing in branding and certification to increase recognition of Vietnamese star anise worldwide.
At VietGlobal Export, we are dedicated to supplying the highest quality Vietnamese star anise to customers worldwide. With direct sourcing from the best-growing regions, strict quality control, and competitive pricing, we ensure that every shipment meets the highest industry standards.
Partner with VietGlobal Export
Looking for a trusted supplier of premium star anise? Whether you need whole star anise pods, ground star anise, or custom-packaged bulk orders, we have the perfect solution for your business.
📞 Contact us today for pricing, specifications, or to request samples. Let’s bring the bold flavors of Vietnamese star anise to your market!
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