Ngoc Linh ginseng, a precious herb of Vietnam, has been attracting the attention of domestic and foreign markets thanks to its special health benefits. However, in order for Ngoc Linh ginseng to not only be a high-class gift but also become a national product, there needs to be strong investment in research, development, as well as support policies to develop this product sustainably, not only domestically but also internationally.
Ngoc Linh ginseng product development policy – Opportunities from state support
Known as a rare medicinal herb that only grows in the highlands of Kon Tum and Quang Nam provinces, Ngoc Linh ginseng has been included by the Vietnamese Government in the list of products that need to be protected and developed. In recent years, the Ngoc Linh ginseng industry has received strong support from agricultural development policies and programs to encourage investment in agriculture.
One of the important strategies put forward by the Government is the National Product Development Program. Accordingly, Ngoc Linh ginseng is included in the group of specialty products that need to be protected and developed, helping to increase production, research and conservation of this valuable ginseng source. The Government has also supported localities growing Ngoc Linh ginseng through projects to support investment in infrastructure, ginseng planting and care techniques, and to build a consumption system for the product.
According to a report from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the area under Ngoc Linh ginseng cultivation has doubled over the past five years, from about 800 hectares in 2017 to 1,600 hectares in 2022. This not only reflects the strong growth potential of the industry but also proves that Ngoc Linh ginseng can become a key product in developing the local economy.
Invest in research and development
Although Ngoc Linh ginseng has great potential, the ginseng industry is still facing many challenges, especially in product research and development. One of the issues that needs to be addressed is the conservation of ginseng varieties and the improvement of ginseng cultivation productivity.
According to Mr. Nguyen Van Son, a research expert on Ngoc Linh ginseng, currently, the conservation of the original Ngoc Linh ginseng variety still faces some difficulties. Ginseng cultivation requires high techniques and a special environment, and therefore technical support is needed to improve cultivation efficiency.
In addition, the development of ginseng processing technology is also an important factor in expanding the consumption market. Ngoc Linh ginseng products currently focus mainly on forms such as ginseng extract, ginseng tea, and ginseng capsules. However, research and testing to develop new products such as ginseng for food processing, ginseng cosmetics, or convenient consumer products such as bottled ginseng water, are still lacking.
Trade promotion activities – Creating a bridge between Ngoc Linh ginseng and consumers
One of the decisive factors helping Ngoc Linh ginseng develop sustainably is building an effective trade promotion strategy, not only domestically but also in the international market. Enterprises in the ginseng industry have begun to cooperate with research units and marketing companies to develop products and expand the market.
One of the outstanding activities in this strategy is participation in international exhibitions. Ngoc Linh ginseng brands have been introduced at international fairs on medicinal herbs and functional foods in countries such as Korea, Japan and the US. These are potential markets where consumers pay great attention to natural and organic products.
According to data from the Vietnam Functional Food Association, the export rate of Ngoc Linh ginseng products has grown by 30% in 2023, especially to markets such as the US, Japan and Korea, where the demand for natural herbal products is very high.
Challenges in maintaining quality and protecting the brand
Although trade promotion activities are being strongly implemented, maintaining the quality of Ngoc Linh ginseng and protecting the brand is not a simple matter. In the current market, fake and poor quality ginseng is one of the major challenges for the Ngoc Linh ginseng industry.
Figures from the Vietnam Market Management Department show that in 2023, more than 15,000 kg of fake Ngoc Linh ginseng were seized from stores and online markets. This not only affects the reputation of the Ngoc Linh ginseng brand but also poses health risks to consumers. Therefore, building a system of traceability and protecting national brands is very important.
Conclusion: Sustainable direction for Ngoc Linh ginseng industry
For Ngoc Linh ginseng industry to develop strongly and sustainably, it requires not only support from the Government’s agricultural development policies, but also strong investment in research, product development, trade promotion, and product quality protection. Production facilities need to promote the application of high technology in cultivation and processing, and at the same time build brand protection policies so that Ngoc Linh ginseng can reach the world.
With a solid foundation and appropriate policies, Ngoc Linh ginseng can become a national brand, representing the Vietnamese medicinal industry, not only bringing economic benefits but also contributing to improving community health.
