On May 18th, 2025, TCM professionals from across the globe gathered in Hue, Vietnam for the Third Conference on Wildlife Protection in Traditional Medicine. This event was hosted by the Coalition and Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, with the support of Choice Not-for Profit and guidance from WildAid and an advisory partner. There were 14 speakers from China, United States, British, Netherland, Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam presented their scientific research findings. Total of 155 participants attended the conference, in which 118 were local Vietnamese practitioners and 37 were international participants coming from 12 countries. 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 chapter of the Coalition, uniting medical professionals, educators, and researches 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 replacement 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—with the previous two years. Research also showed that around 400 animal species are used in traditional remedies in Vietnam, 71 of which appear on 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 publicity demonstrate their commitments, conference participants took part in signing ceremony, officially joining the Global Coalition for Wildlife Protection in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Many expressed interest in future collaborations, includes joint research, international partnerships, and the development of wildlife-free training curricula for future practitioners.

Founded in 2024 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, researches, and herbal manufacturers around the world in support of a more ethical, sustainable vision for traditional medicine. 

Source: Coalition of Wildlife Protection in Traditional Chinese Medicine