Vietnam’s “King of Spices”: Leading the World in Pepper Production and Export
For over two decades, Vietnam has proudly reigned as the global leader in pepper production and export. According to the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association (VPSA), the United States remains Vietnam’s largest pepper market in the first quarter of 2025, importing 10,278 tons, which accounts for 22% of the global market share.
In 2024, pepper exports to the US alone garnered a remarkable $400 million for Vietnam. Even more impressive is the fact that Vietnam’s pepper export volume is almost equivalent to the combined production of all other countries. With 170,000 tons of pepper exported in 2024, Vietnam solidifies its position as the world’s largest producer and exporter of pepper, accounting for 40% of the global harvest and commanding 60% of the export market share.
From Familiar Spice to Rediscovered Health “Elixir”
Although pepper is a familiar spice in Vietnamese households, not many are aware of its medicinal properties and the myriad health benefits it offers. One of the reasons pepper is underutilized domestically is the abundance of other spices and the misconception that excessive pepper consumption can cause stomach aches. However, experts suggest that when used appropriately, pepper can deliver surprising health advantages.
According to Mr. Bui Dac Sang, a renowned Eastern medicine practitioner from the Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association, pepper is characterized in Eastern medicine as having a pungent taste and hot nature. It is associated with the stomach and large intestine meridians. Pepper is known for its ability to dispel cold, alleviate pain, enhance digestion, prevent vomiting, and treat abdominal pain caused by cold, nausea, and indigestion.
Additionally, pepper exhibits antiseptic and antiparasitic properties. Its aroma repels insects and is used to protect woolen clothing from insect damage. Notably, studies have revealed that black pepper, the variety commonly found in Vietnam, possesses anticancer properties and helps regulate blood pressure while aiding in fat burning.
Black pepper is rich in antioxidants, particularly piperine, which safeguards cells from the detrimental effects of free radicals. Piperine also exerts anti-inflammatory effects, benefiting cardiovascular health as chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to heart diseases. Furthermore, it helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels while elevating good cholesterol (HDL) levels.
In addition to piperine, black pepper boasts other antioxidants such as vitamin C, flavonoids, and carotenoids. These compounds protect neuronal cells from free radical damage and improve blood flow to the brain, ensuring an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients for optimal brain function.
Embracing Pepper for Optimal Health
“Pepper is a ubiquitous spice in Vietnam, exported worldwide, and possesses exceptional health benefits,” Mr. Sang shared. “However, it is unfortunate that Vietnamese people tend to use pepper sparingly, mostly as a condiment for dipping sauces or certain dishes, and even less than MSG and sugar. Yet, its benefits far outweigh these limited uses.”
Mr. Sang advises that to maximize the health benefits of pepper, it should be combined with other foods or medicines rather than solely used as a daily condiment. For instance, one can consume 2-4 grams of pepper, either by decocting it into a drink or grinding it into a powder to create pills, to treat abdominal pain caused by cold or indigestion.
Additionally, pepper can be employed to alleviate toothaches. Combining equal parts of pepper and myrobalan, grinding them into a fine powder, and then mixing them with beeswax to form small pills is an effective remedy. When needed, crush one of the pills and pack it into the aching tooth. However, Mr. Sang cautions, “Due to pepper’s pungent and hot nature, it is advisable to consult an expert for guidance on dosage to avoid potential side effects when using it as medicine.”
He also warns that individuals with irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, or pregnant women should refrain from excessive pepper consumption to prevent internal heat, constipation, or irritation, which could increase the risk of bleeding in hemorrhoids.
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