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According to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), mace is one of the world’s oldest spices and the third most expensive, following saffron and vanilla. Vietnam stands as a nation with significant potential in the production and export of this valuable spice.
In terms of export performance, data from the Vietnam Pepper Association reveals that from January 1 to September 30, 2025, Vietnam exported 3,283 tons of mace and nutmeg, generating a revenue of $25.7 million. Compared to the same period in 2024, export volume increased by 31.3%, while revenue rose by 28.2%. To date, Vietnam’s mace and nutmeg exports have reached 31 markets, with the Netherlands, Pakistan, and the United States being the top importers. Over 30 companies are involved in exporting these products, with Nedspice Vietnam Co., Ltd. and Olam Vietnam Co., Ltd. leading as the largest exporters since the beginning of the year.
In 2024, Vietnam exported 3,402 tons of mace and nutmeg, totaling $27.6 million in revenue. The Netherlands, the United States, and Germany were the primary import destinations, receiving 950 tons, 518 tons, and 369 tons, respectively.
Globally, mace is predominantly cultivated in Guatemala, India, Sri Lanka, Papua New Guinea, and Tanzania. It also grows wild and is cultivated in Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and China. A survey of Vietnamese e-commerce platforms shows that Indian mace is priced between $67 and $84 per kilogram. Meanwhile, some international e-commerce sites offer Vietnamese mace for over $67 per kilogram.
In Vietnam, mace grows naturally and is primarily cultivated in highland regions with cool climates, such as Cao Bang and Lao Cai. The plant reaches heights of 2-3 meters and is perennial, with creeping roots and leaves arranged in two rows. The flowers and fruits of the mace tree are used as medicinal ingredients. The fruits are harvested from trees at least three years old, during the transition from green to yellow, typically in autumn. After harvesting, they are dried in the shade and stored in cool, dry places.
Nutmeg (locally known as “nhục quả” or “ngọc quả”) has the scientific name Myristica fragrans Hourt and belongs to the Myristicaceae family. This woody plant grows up to 8-10 meters tall, with slender branches and smooth bark. Its leaves are alternate and remain green year-round.
Both mace and nutmeg are not only export commodities but also offer numerous health benefits. They enhance intestinal motility, stimulate gastric juice secretion, prevent abnormal intestinal fermentation, and alleviate nausea. Additionally, they possess antifungal properties, reduce fever, relax smooth muscles, and lower blood pressure in hypertensive individuals.
In 2025, Vietnam’s spice industry aims to achieve an export revenue of approximately $2 billion. Growing global demand for spices, coupled with businesses’ efforts to establish export-standard raw material regions, is expected to drive the sector’s growth in the coming years.
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