Vietnam Boosts Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration for Medicinal Plant Resource Development

Vietnam is recognized as a country with diverse and abundant medicinal plant resources. However, the processes of khai thác (exploitation) and nuôi trồng (cultivation) still face numerous difficulties, necessitating collaboration and support from state management agencies, local authorities, and the 'four parties' (government, businesses, research institutions, and producers). Currently, the market sees the circulation of medicinal plants and traditional medicines of unknown origin, requiring strengthened oversight to prevent this. The distribution of uncertified products not only threatens public health but also impacts the international credibility of Vietnamese medicinal plants. To promote the development of the medicinal plant industry, the standardization of quality standards is an urgent priority. This will enhance product reliability and serve as a 'đòn bẩy' (lever) to attract domestic and international investment. Specifically, innovative approaches like 'phát triển vùng dược liệu dưới tán rừng gắn với du lịch nông nghiệp' (developing medicinal plant areas under forest canopies linked with agricultural tourism) aim to achieve both economic benefits and environmental conservation. Furthermore, regions like Tuyên Quang province are advancing initiatives to open new avenues for medicinal plant development. This has the potential to invigorate local economies and contribute to the advancement of Vietnam's traditional medicine. The development of agriculture and medicinal plants under the 'định hướng xanh' (green orientation) signifies Vietnam's commitment to realizing a sustainable society.