Core Insights - The rising prices of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbs are causing significant concern among patients, with many unable to afford necessary treatments [1][2][3] - The increase in prices is attributed to higher cultivation costs, multiple layers of pricing in the distribution chain, and speculative capital inflating prices [1][4][6] - Experts suggest that a collaborative approach involving government, enterprises, and the industry is essential to bring prices back to a reasonable level [1][7] Price Trends - Prices of various TCM products have doubled or even tripled in recent years, with specific examples such as the price of Compound Suanzaoren Capsules rising from 49.9 yuan in 2017 to 80 yuan, and in some cities reaching 150 yuan [2] - The price of traditional herbs like Bai Shao and Bai Shu has surged from 30-40 yuan per kilogram in 2022 to around 200-300 yuan in 2023 [2] - The price of herbs like Chan Tui has increased from approximately 600 yuan per kilogram five years ago to around 2000 yuan currently [2] Cost Factors - The increase in TCM herb prices is primarily due to rising labor and agricultural input costs, with the cost of cultivating Angelica Sinensis (Dang Gui) increasing from 2000 yuan to 3000 yuan per acre [4][6] - Extreme weather conditions, such as droughts, have also contributed to price hikes, with the price of Party Ginseng rising from 70 yuan to 110 yuan per kilogram [4] Distribution Challenges - The distribution chain for TCM is lengthy, involving multiple stakeholders, which leads to significant markups at each stage [5][6] - The high cost of raw materials is not easily passed down to consumers, as the prices of finished products remain elevated despite some reductions in raw material costs [6] Policy Recommendations - Experts recommend enhancing price regulation mechanisms to stabilize TCM herb prices and improve transparency in the market [7][8] - Suggestions include promoting mechanized and standardized cultivation practices, establishing direct supply chains from producers to retailers, and creating a comprehensive traceability system for TCM products [7][8]