Shan tuyet tea provides new livelihoods for Hmong communities

Ancient Shan tuyet tea trees, some hundreds of years old, are becoming a vital source of livelihood for Hmong communities in the Northwest highlands of Vietnam, specifically in areas like Pà Cò and Phình Hồ.

In Phình Hồ, Lao Cai province, these tea trees grow at altitudes between 1,100 and 1,300 meters. The unique climate, characterized by high humidity, mist, and significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, contributes to a high aromatic content in the leaves. The tea is recognized for its distinctive white fuzz, which gives it the name ‘Shan tuyet’.

Once primarily used for local consumption, these ancient tea forests are being transformed into high-value commercial products, including black tea, white tea, and snow tea. Many products have received geographical indication protection and OCOP 4-star certification. By connecting local farmers with businesses and expanding raw material areas, the region is preserving its cultural heritage and natural genetic resources while creating sustainable economic opportunities for ethnic minority groups.