Viet Nam aims to develop a comprehensive, modern and science-based traditional medicine sector with stronger international integration, making it an important part of the national healthcare system by 2030, according to a newly-approved national strategy.

Viet Nam is considered one of the countries with diverse and abundant medicinal herb resources, but the exploitation and cultivation of medicinal herbs still face significant challenges, requiring concerted efforts and support from government agencies and local authorities.

Traditional medicine is recognised as a pillar of Viet Nam's healthcare system in protecting and improving people's health. However, many experts believe that the sector has not realised its full potential due to the lack of a comprehensive legal framework and effective implementation mechanisms.

With rich medicinal herb resources and a long-standing traditional medicine system, Viet Nam is now well-positioned to build a modern, sustainable medicinal herb industry with international competitiveness. However, translating this potential into reality requires many mechanisms and policies, in which science, technology, and digital transformation play a pivotal role.

Viet Nam has a long-standing tradition of traditional medicine and a relatively complete system of medical examination and treatment; however, the reimbursement results from the Health Insurance Fund for this field are still quite modest. Along with continuing research and development of traditional medicine, relevant agencies need to remove barriers in the mechanism so that people can access and benefit more from services in this field.

Party General Secretary and State President To Lam has stressed that developing traditional medicine is not only about preserving the heritage left by previous generations, but also about turning it into a resource for national development and better public healthcare in the new era.

A China–Viet Nam friendship border medical service station was put into operation in Shuikou township, Longzhou district, Chongzuo city in China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on April 10, marking a step forward in cross-border healthcare cooperation between the two nations.

Viet Nam has abundant medicinal resources, along with many unique experiences in using medicinal plants and remedies for disease prevention and treatment from various ethnic communities.

Medicinal plants are now becoming a strategic choice in many localities—not only helping to eradicate hunger and reduce poverty, but also contributing to reshaping rural areas, increasing incomes, and preserving the essence of traditional medicine.

The second Viet Nam-France International Acupuncture Conference took place in Sauset-les-Pins, a town near Marseille in southeastern France on September 16, affirming the strong cooperation between the two nations in health care, education, and scientific research.