Core Viewpoint - The ginseng industry in Wisconsin is facing significant challenges, including a decline in the number of growers, reduced production, and the impact of tariffs due to trade wars, which have created uncertainty in the market [1][2][3]. Group 1: Industry Overview - Wisconsin is the only region in the U.S. producing high-quality ginseng, with a history of 125 years in cultivation [1]. - The peak production period was in the 1980s and 1990s, with over 1,200 growers and an annual output exceeding 2.6 million pounds (approximately 1.18 million kilograms) [1]. - Currently, the number of growers has decreased to 79, with an expected further decline of 12 in the next two years [1][2]. Group 2: Production Challenges - Ginseng production in Wisconsin has dropped to about 1 million pounds (approximately 0.45 million kilograms) [2]. - Increased competition from countries like Canada and adverse weather conditions have contributed to the decline in production [2]. - The ginseng industry is heavily reliant on the Chinese market, with about 80% of Wisconsin ginseng exported or brought as gifts to China [2]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The trade war has led to significant financial losses for ginseng growers, with sales and employment decreasing [3]. - Production costs have increased five to six times since the 1980s, while the price of ginseng has remained stagnant or even decreased, leading to reduced interest in cultivation [3]. - Current wholesale prices for ginseng are around $25 to $30 per pound, compared to $40 per pound in the 1980s [3]. Group 4: Media Attention - Recent media coverage has increased awareness of the challenges faced by the Wisconsin ginseng industry, highlighting the impact of tariffs [4].

Group 1 - The article discusses the severe impact of ongoing US-China trade tensions on American ginseng growers, particularly in Wisconsin, which produces 98% of the US ginseng supply [1] - Due to trade disputes, shipments to China have stalled since April, leading to a significant accumulation of unsold ginseng in warehouses and a decline in prices [1][2] - The US exported $32.5 million worth of ginseng to mainland China and Hong Kong last year, accounting for 83% of the global export total for this product [1] Group 2 - Many ginseng growers are exiting the industry due to low prices and high investment costs, with some reducing their planting areas or ceasing operations altogether [2] - The wholesale export volume of ginseng decreased by 10% to 15% last year, attributed to the uncertainty created by the "Trump effect" on trade policies [2] - The domestic ginseng market in the US has shrunk by 25% over the past two years, with growers now focusing on the Asian American community while facing challenges from tariffs and geopolitical tensions [2]