Panax is a highly versatile and high-value medicinal plant used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics due to its extensive health benefits, ranging from antioxidant to anti-cancer properties. While it is a rare native species found in high-altitude forests in regions like Lai Chau, (former) Quang Nam and (former) Kon Tum, all parts of the plant are extremely valuable, with natural roots fetching prices as high as 200 million VND per kilogram, and prices for cultivated Panax ranging from 30 to 100 million VND per kilogram.

Son La Province possesses over 50,000 hectares of land at altitudes above 1,400 meters, offering ideal ecological conditions – cool temperatures, high humidity, and thick humus – for high-quality Panax. Market demand for this “national product” is surging, yet domestic supply remains extremely limited. Strong policy support from central and provincial levels further encourages investment in this high-value medicinal plant.

However, the sector faces significant challenges. As a new crop, local farmers lack proper agriculture techniques. The high investment cost of quality seedlings, infrastructure and the long five-year harvest cycle create barriers for low-income households to start cultivating Panax. Furthermore, seedling provision is limited and complex to propagate, and organised value chain linkages between cooperatives and farmers are not yet widely established.

In Panax cultivation, both men and women collaborate across most production stages. Therefore, Panax cultivation represents a transformative opportunity for women’s economic empowerment, particularly for ethnic minorities. Women’s natural meticulousness makes them ideal for tasks such as seed sowing, nursery care, and harvesting. Participation in the Panax value chain can significantly boost household income and confidence. By taking on leadership roles in cooperatives, women can also gain greater influence in household financial decisions and business investments.