In the era of colonial powers black pepper was considered black gold and wars were fought to acquire the spice trade routes. This was the period mostly between 1500 AD to 1800 AD.

Post World War I came the era of globalization in the 1900s. Free trade, globalization and WTO became the guiding principles. Low cost production and procurement became the norm of these times. Sourcing was concentrated in fewer locations and barriers of trades were reduced slowly. This was also accelerated by the advent of advanced communication technologies in the late 1900s.

With the turn of the millennium especially post 2010, we have witnessed some of the gruesome geopolitical events such as Covid, Wars in Middle east, wars in Asia and expansion led political agendas.

In the present times, the world is undergoing a shift away from single-source or region-dominated supply chains toward diversified, security-driven, and geopolitically aligned trade networks.

- U.S. & Western markets are reassessing dependencies on China/SE Asia and re-negotiating tariff regimes with emerging suppliers.
- Developing producers in Asia, Africa, and Latin America are stepping up as alternative sources for commodities like black pepper.
- Trade agreements and Tariffs are re-shaping competitive positions.

This shift is no longer subtle but visible in Black pepper trade. Retailers have started listing black pepper of multi-origins on their labels. Companies have started looking actively not only for lowest cost pepper but also a secure and politically aligned supply chain.

While Vietnam continues its dominant position due to its scale, processing ability and good diplomacy, there are challenges ahead. This VIPO 2026 will be useful for all stakeholders throwing light on how they can meet the challenges. Whether it is regulation and tariff issues for Growers, or local issues like VAT and risk management for Processors or future outlook of Vietnam pepper for buyers ... all this will be presented, debated and discussed at length.

We hereby invite all stakeholders to come to discuss, gain insights, network with industry experts for a sustainable and resilient black pepper industry in the era of rebalancing global trade on 3-5 March 2026 in the beautiful city of Danang – Viet Nam.