Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides), commonly known as khus, is a perennial aromatic grass with significant agronomic, ecological, and economic potential. Native to India, vetiver is cultivated for its deep fibrous roots, which are used in essential oil production, soil and water conservation, handicrafts, and other value-added products. The global vetiver oil market is projected to exceed USD 800 million by 2025, driven by rising demand in perfumery, aromatherapy, personal care, and wellness sectors. Asia-Pacific accounts for nearly 40–45% of global production, with India, Indonesia, and Haiti as leading suppliers. Despite this strong global demand, India’s domestic production of vetiver oil is limited—estimated at around 20–25 tons annually against a global output of approximately 250 tons, leaving a substantial import gap and market opportunity. The increasing interest in sustainable and natural products has further expanded the scope for vetiver market growth, with value-added products such as hydrosols, handicrafts, herbal cosmetics, and eco-friendly building materials emerging as promising revenue streams. This paper reviews the current scenario of vetiver production, challenges in its value chain, economic prospects for farmers, and marketing dynamics for its diverse products, offering insights for stakeholders to enhance agribusiness and rural livelihoods.
