Vietnam's Star Anise Exports Reach New Heights in 2024

In July 2024, Vietnam's star anise exports reached 1,662 tonnes, generating a turnover of $7.8 million. This marked a 7.4% increase in export volume compared to June. India emerged as the main export market, receiving 1,062 tonnes, which accounted for 63.9% of the total exports. Prosi Thang Long, a leading exporter, shipped 309 tonnes, representing 18.6% of the total, with a notable 45.1% increase from the previous month.

Strong Performance in the First Seven Months of 2024

• During the first seven months of 2024, Vietnam exported 8,685 tonnes of star anise, achieving a total export turnover of $41.9 million.
• While the export volume increased by 5.1% compared to the same period last year, the turnover saw a 17.1% decline.
• Leading exporters included Prosi Thang Long with 1,586 tonnes (up 15.6%), Tuan Minh with 485 tonnes (up 25%), and Nedspice Vietnam with 482 tonnes (down 42.9%).

India Leads as the Top Importer of Vietnamese Star Anise

India remains the primary market for Vietnamese star anise, importing 5,472 tonnes in the first seven months of 2024, a 7% increase from the previous year. Other significant markets included the United States (601 tonnes, up 7.9%) and Taiwan (276 tonnes, up 228.6%). Despite the overall positive trend, exports to China declined by 63.4%, reaching only 259 tonnes.

Vietnam's Star Anise: A Rare and Valuable Spice

Star anise is a highly valued spice, with Vietnam being one of the few countries capable of producing it in large quantities due to favorable growing conditions. The spice is primarily cultivated in northern provinces such as Lang Son and Cao Bang, with an annual output exceeding 16,000 tonnes. The rarity of star anise is further highlighted by its long cultivation period. Requiring about 16 years to yield two crops per year.

Vietnam continues to lead in global star anise exports, with India as the dominant market. Despite challenges, Vietnam's unique ability to produce star anise positions it as a key player in the global spice market.