For centuries, wildlife products like pangolin scales, bear bile, and rhino horn have been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). But the demand for these products has driven many species toward extinction, threatening global biodiversity.
Today, a new generation of TCM practitioners is leading the shift toward compassionate, sustainable healing.
On May 18th, 2025, TCM professionals from across the globe gathered in Hue, Vietnam for the Third Conference on Wildlife Protection in Traditional Medicine. The event was hosted by the Coalition for Wildlife Protection in TCM and Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, with the support of Choice Not-for-Profit and guidance from WildAid as an advisory partner. The conference marked a major step forward in the global movement to eliminate endangered species from traditional medicine and champion environmentally friendly alternatives.
Vietnam became the first country to establish a national chapter of the Coalition, uniting medical professionals, educators, and researchers committed to identifying and embracing effective plant-based substitutes for animal-derived ingredients.
Throughout the day, speakers from around the world shared best practices for sustainable medicine and presented examples of successful treatment methods using non-wildlife alternatives, such as botanical replacements for pangolin scales, bear bile substitutes made with biotechnology, and acupuncture. Experts highlighted the strong link between traditional medicine and biodiversity conservation, encouraging the medical community to reimagine healing in harmony with nature.
According to a 2022 study by TRAFFIC, 59% of traditional medicine practitioners surveyed had recommended illegal wildlife products—including those derived from rhinos, tigers, and pangolins—within the previous two years. Research also shows that around 400 animal species are used in traditional remedies in Vietnam, 71 of which appear on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
But the tide is turning. In a 2023 survey conducted by the Coalition among 131 practitioners in Hue Province, 55% expressed willingness to adopt medications made with alternatives to pangolin scales, citing wildlife endangerment as the top reason.
To publicly demonstrate their commitment, conference participants took part in a signing ceremony, officially joining the Global Coalition for Wildlife Protection in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Many expressed interest in future collaborations, including joint research, international partnerships, and the development of wildlife-free training curricula for future practitioners.
Founded in 2022 by respected leaders in the field—including Prof. Lixing Lao (President, Virginia University of Integrative Medicine), Prof. Yemeng Chen (President, New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine), and Mrs. Lixin Huang (Former President, American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine)—the Coalition continues to engage practitioners, educators, researchers, and herbal manufacturers around the world in support of a more ethical, sustainable vision for traditional medicine.
###
Contact:
Mr. Trần Thanh Kim Tiền
Marcom Director, Choice Not-for-profit
Phone number: (+84) 76 7856 579
Email: tientran@choicevn.com
Stay in touch and get the latest WildAid updates.
SIGN UP