Exported to dozens of countries, Vietnamese star anise earns over USD 17 million

Vietnamese star anise is increasingly popular after by countries around the world. It generated more than USD 17 million in export revenue during the first four months of 2026.

According to data from the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA), Vietnam exported 1,370 tons of star anise in April 2026. This generated more than USD 5.4 million in export revenue.

Compared with the same month last year, export volume declined by 43.8%. However, it increased by 13.8% from the previous month. Export earnings also rose by nearly 16% compared to March 2026.

During the first four months of 2026, Vietnam exported more than 4,300 tons of dried star anise. Export revenue exceeded USD 17.2 million. The export volume fell by 26% and export value declined by 21% compared to the same period last year. However, star anise remained one of Vietnam’s highest-value spice exports.

Vietnamese star anise

Notably, the average price of Vietnamese star anise reached USD 3,941 per ton in April. It was equivalent to nearly VND 100 million per ton at current exchange rates. This price level is significantly higher than that of many other agricultural products, including fresh durian. The fruit has long been a star performer in Vietnam’s fruit export sector.

Globally, Vietnamese star anise is a unique crop because only a limited number of countries possess the suitable natural conditions required for large-scale cultivation. As a result, Vietnam and China are the world’s two largest producers of star anise.

In Vietnam, star anise is mainly available in the northeastern provinces. They are Lang Son, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, and parts of Quang Ninh. According to agricultural sector statistics, the country currently has approximately 55,000 hectares of star anise plantations. These plantations produce around 22,000 tons annually, making Vietnam the world’s second-largest producer after China.

Beyond its traditional role as a culinary spice, star anise is raw materials in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food-processing industries. Its distinctive aroma and high essential oil content have made it a highly sought-after raw material among international manufacturers.