Unique Ngoc Linh Ginseng Competition

SAM 1 — People brought ginseng to the competition. Photo: HO QUAN

On the morning of August 1st, in Nam Tra My commune, more than 70 households from Tra Linh, Tra Tap, Tra Van, Tra Leng, and Nam Tra My communes brought nearly 200 Ngoc Linh ginseng plants to compete in the ginseng competition at the 7th Ngoc Linh Ginseng Festival - 2025.

Ginseng plants for the competition are divided into four age groups: 5-7 years, 8-10 years, 11-15 years, and over 15 years. Those ginseng roots that make it to the final round must not only be true to variety and age but also possess a distinctive shape: well-proportioned stem, leaves, tubers, and roots; free from pests, diseases, and deformities; free from chemical use; and have clear origin verification from the relevant communes.

Mr. Ho Van Dang, a member of the judging panel, commented: "There are ginseng roots that are nearly 20 years old, with tall stems, roots that twist and turn like flying dragons, evenly distributed ginseng flowers, and roots firmly attached to the base as if embracing the forest soil. These are healthy ginseng plants that have grown naturally in harsh conditions."

SAM 4 — The judges scored each ginseng root. Photo: HO QUAN

Ms. Ho Thi Thuy Ngan, owner of Tuan Ngan business (Nam Tra My commune), brought a two-branched ginseng root to the competition, competing in the 8-10 year old category. Ms. Ngan said that she grew this ginseng root in her garden in Tra Linh commune, where it grew in harsh conditions, resulting in an unusual and unique development.

"This is the most unique ginseng root in my garden, so I'm bringing it to the competition hoping to share my knowledge. Most of the ginseng roots participating in the competition have their own distinctive characteristics," Ms. Ngan said.

SAM 6 — Locals select the most unique ginseng roots to participate in the competition. Photo: PHAN VINH

The competition aims to standardize the quality assessment process for Ngoc Linh ginseng in the area, from origin and age to physical standards, contributing to combating counterfeiting and protecting the value of genuine ginseng in an increasingly complex market.

Mr. Nguyen Hong Nhan, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Nam Tra My commune and Head of the organizing committee of the competition, said that this is also an opportunity to educate the ginseng-growing community about technical standards, helping people to be aware of the true value of the ginseng plant they are preserving.

Each year, the quantity and quality of ginseng submitted for the competition have improved, demonstrating the shift of local people from spontaneous production to professional and sustainable production.