Paving the way for Vietnamese ginseng to break through

Ngoc Linh ginseng, with its rare and highly valued medicinal properties, is facing a major opportunity to develop into a key economic sector generating billion-dollar value. With strategic policies from the Government, strong engagement from local authorities, and a growing wave of investment from businesses, the path for this “national treasure” to achieve a breakthrough and reach international markets is becoming increasingly open.

Ngoc Linh ginseng has long been recognized as one of the finest ginseng varieties in the world and a source of national pride for Vietnam. However, the development journey of this “national treasure” still faces numerous challenges. These include fragmented production, limited processing technology, and the proliferation of counterfeit and imitation products that undermine the brand’s reputation. To address these bottlenecks, a comprehensive policy framework has been established. It serves as a strategic guideline for sustainable development.

A key milestone is Decision No. 611/QD-TTg, which approved the Vietnam Ginseng Development Program to 2030, with a vision toward 2045. This is considered the most comprehensive and systematic strategy ever introduced for the sector. It sets ambitious targets for development. Specifically, by 2030, Vietnam aims to develop approximately 21,000 hectares of ginseng cultivation, with 100% of the growing area granted cultivation codes and geographical indication protection. Annual harvested output is expected to reach 300 metric tons. This will be accompanied by the development of advanced processing facilities, with 50% meeting GMP-WHO good manufacturing practice standards. The program not only focuses on Ngoc Linh ginseng in its traditional cultivation areas of Quang Nam and Kon Tum (now Da Nang City and Quang Ngai Province). It also expands development to other potential regions such as Lai Chau, Lam Dong, and Thua Thien Hue.

Alongside cultivation planning, brand building and protection are considered critical priorities. The granting of the “Ngoc Linh” geographical indication certification for Ngoc Linh ginseng roots by the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam provides a vital legal tool. It helps verify product origin, combat counterfeit and substandard goods, and build strong consumer confidence both domestically and internationally. Local authorities are making significant efforts to manage and authorize the use of this geographical indication. These efforts ensure protection for legitimate farmers and businesses while creating a transparent business environment.

These efforts, together with the guidance of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, are gradually positioning Ngoc Linh ginseng as a prestigious national brand capable of competing in the global market.

Policies have paved the way, while a strong wave of private-sector investment is providing the driving force to turn these goals into reality. In practice, simply harvesting and selling fresh ginseng roots generates limited added value. It also does not fully unlock the potential of this precious medicinal plant. The future of Vietnam’s ginseng industry lies in deep processing and the development of diverse product chains. These range from pharmaceuticals and functional foods to premium cosmetics.

Recognizing this trend, a number of major business groups have begun researching and investing in Ngoc Linh ginseng. Companies such as Truong Hai Group (THACO) and Capella JSC have conducted surveys and developed plans to establish large-scale cultivation areas and modern processing facilities in areas under Da Nang City. The participation of businesses with strong financial resources, advanced technologies, and professional management expertise is expected to transform the ginseng industry. It will shift production from a small-scale, fragmented model toward an industrialized system based on integrated value chains.

Local authorities are also actively promoting investment and encouraging businesses to cooperate with farmers. These efforts aim to develop sustainable raw material areas while investing in processing technologies. The goal is not only to create high-quality products for the domestic market but also to penetrate demanding international markets.

When this vision becomes reality, Ngoc Linh ginseng will no longer be viewed merely as a crop that helps reduce poverty among ethnic minority communities. Instead, it will become a strategic economic sector, carrying the Vietnamese brand to global markets and truly living up to its status as a “national treasure” bestowed by nature.