The Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association is reporting that while the Chinese market's purchasing power remains stagnant, global pepper demand is on the rise, with the EU as a key consumer. Vietnamese pepper processing capacity could reach 140,000 tons/year, a potential boon for the industry's growth. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is collaborating with the Vietnam Pepper and Spice Association to establish industry guidelines and certify pepper products, aiming to stabilize and grow the industry.