Da Nang tightens clampdown on street vendors, fire-breathing performers at eateries

The municipal administration’s order is aimed at maintaining a safe, orderly, and visitor-friendly environment during the peak travel season.

According to city officials, unauthorized mobile vendors continue to operate in violation of regulations, occupying roads and sidewalks, and affecting urban aesthetics, business order, and traffic safety.

The problem has heavily affected Son Tra Night Market and the Dragon Bridge area.

Many tourists have complained about vendors engaging in persistent solicitation and competing aggressively for customers, raising concerns over Da Nang’s tourism image.

Street vending remains widespread on several popular coastal streets, including Vo Nguyen Giap and Nguyen Van Thoai, where seafood restaurants and other dining establishments attract large crowds.

Vendors offer a variety of products ranging from snacks, fruit, children’s toys, and balloons to souvenirs.

In many cases, sellers continue approaching customers after being turned down or move from table to table in search of buyers at eateries.

More recently, groups of fire-breathing performers have begun appearing at restaurants.

After staging brief fire-breathing acts and circus-style performances, they circulated among diners to sell candy or ask for monetary tips.

Some visitors said the performances add energy and entertainment to the dining atmosphere.

However, they also noted that repeated appearances by multiple groups during the same evening can interrupt meals and diminish the overall dining experience.

To address the issue, the municipal People’s Committee has assigned the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism to join hands with police officers and local authorities to conduct inspections at tourist destinations and night markets.

The related agencies have also been instructed to promptly respond to complaints from residents and tourists regarding harassment, commercial fraud, and activities that disrupt public order.

Also, the city is calling for greater public awareness efforts, urging tourism businesses and service providers to comply with regulations on urban order, fair commercial practices, and courteous treatment of visitors as part of a broader initiative to reinforce Da Nang’s reputation as a safe, welcoming destination.