Vietnam Star Anise Exports Surge: Market Analysis & Outlook

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The global star anise market is witnessing a remarkable shift, driven by surging exports from Vietnam and robust demand in key consuming countries. In March 2025, Vietnam exported 1,469 tons of star anise, generating $5.1 million in turnover—a staggering 102.9% increase from the previous month. India remains the largest importer, accounting for over 75% of March’s shipments, while the EU and the US continue to expand their demand. For the first quarter of 2025, Vietnam’s star anise exports reached 3,495 tons, up 57.3% year-on-year in volume and 2.2% in value, underscoring a dynamic market where volume growth outpaces price appreciation. This expansion is fueled by the spice’s dual role as a culinary essential and a medicinal ingredient, making it indispensable in both home kitchens and pharmaceutical industries.

Vietnam’s dominance in the Indian market—holding over 80% market share—positions it as a pivotal supplier amid India’s growing consumer class and rising spice consumption. Meanwhile, the emergence of global e-commerce platforms has further widened market access, allowing Vietnamese star anise to reach new international buyers. With India and China accounting for approximately 75% of Vietnam’s star anise exports, shifts in these markets will be crucial for price direction and trade flows. Weather conditions in Vietnam’s main growing regions remain favorable, supporting strong yields and stable supply. However, the slight decline in FOB prices for both Vietnamese and Indian origins signals heightened competition and ample inventories. As global consumer spending, particularly in India, is projected to rise sharply by 2030, the outlook for star anise remains bullish—provided supply chains remain resilient and weather risks are managed.

📈 Prices

Product Origin Location Delivery Terms Latest Price (USD/kg) Previous Price (USD/kg) Weekly Change Market Sentiment
Anis Seed Syria Dordrecht, NL FCA 3.12 3.12 0% Stable
Anise Star (Organic) Vietnam Hanoi, VN FOB 7.36 7.40 -0.5% Softening
Anise Star (Organic) India New Delhi, IN FOB 6.47 6.50 -0.5% Softening
Anise Star Vietnam Hanoi, VN FOB 7.97 8.00 -0.4% Softening

🌍 Supply & Demand

  • Vietnam: Exported 1,469 tons in March 2025 (+102.9% MoM), totaling 3,495 tons in Q1 2025 (+57.3% YoY).
  • India: Largest export destination, imported 1,111 tons in March 2025 (+5% MoM), holds 80%+ market share for Vietnam’s star anise.
  • China: Second-largest market, accounts for ~25% of Vietnam’s star anise exports.
  • EU & US: Growing demand, especially for organic and high-quality grades.
  • Consumption: Driven by culinary use (e.g., Phở), medicinal demand, and industrial applications.
  • Distribution: Direct exports and global e-commerce platforms broaden market reach.

📊 Fundamentals

  • Inventory: Ample stocks in Vietnam and India; no reported supply shortages.
  • Speculation: Price stability suggests limited speculative buying, with traders awaiting new crop developments.
  • Global Position: Vietnam is the world’s second-largest star anise exporter; India and China are key buyers.
  • Market Share: Vietnam dominates Indian imports (80%+), with China and EU as secondary markets.

🌦️ Weather Outlook

  • Northern Vietnam (main growing region): Favorable rainfall and mild temperatures reported for late May 2025, supporting healthy crop development.
  • Short-term risk: No major weather disruptions expected in the next 2 weeks; continued good conditions bode well for yield and quality.
  • India & China: Stable weather in key spice-growing regions; no adverse impacts on demand or logistics anticipated.

🌐 Global Production & Stocks

Country 2024/25 Production Estimate (tons) Export Share (%) Inventory Trend
Vietnam ~8,000 2nd largest Stable/Increasing
China ~10,000 Largest Stable
India ~2,000 Growing importer Stable

📆 Trading Outlook & Recommendations

  • 📉 Short-term: Prices are slightly softening due to robust supply and subdued speculative activity. Buyers can negotiate for discounts, especially on large lots.
  • 📈 Medium-term: Monitor Indian and Chinese demand, as any shift could tighten the market and lift prices.
  • Long-term: Bullish outlook on rising global consumer spending, especially in India. Consider locking in contracts for Q3/Q4 2025 if weather remains favorable.
  • ⚠️ Risks: Monitor for any adverse weather events in Vietnam and China, as these could quickly tighten supply and reverse the current softening trend.

🔮 3-Day Regional Price Forecast

Product Origin Current Price (USD/kg) 3-Day Forecast (USD/kg) Trend
Anis Seed Syria 3.12 3.10 – 3.13 Stable
Anise Star (Organic) Vietnam 7.36 7.30 – 7.40 Slightly Soft
Anise Star (Organic) India 6.47 6.45 – 6.50 Slightly Soft
Anise Star Vietnam 7.97 7.90 – 8.00 Slightly Soft