Traditional markets in Ho Chi Minh City still potential to thrive

As a regular shopper at traditional markets in Ho Chi Minh City, local resident and Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reader Vang Cong Minh said he has witnessed the tough challenges these markets face amid the rapid rise of e-commerce. But he believes they still have room to grow.

Embracing competition, playing to strengths

Traditional markets cannot effectively compete with e-commerce platforms in categories like packaged food, household goods, fashion, or cosmetics—products that require sleek design, competitive pricing, and fast, often free, delivery.

The more traditional markets try to compete in these areas, the more they fall behind.

Instead, they should double down on what makes them unique: fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, local specialties, and items connected to cultural identity.

Traditional markets should focus on food services and local specialties, according to Minh.

In reality, many locals and tourists still seek out traditional foods made on-site at markets for their freshness, affordability, and authentic taste.

Traditional markets could evolve into "rustic food courts" that offer breakfast, lunch, or takeaway meals with a distinctly local flavor.

Regional specialties should also be featured prominently to meet local demand and provide a memorable culinary experience for visitors.

Minh also suggested innovating the fresh produce sector with transparency and convenience.

Fresh produce is a key advantage of traditional markets. To earn customer trust, vendors should clearly display product origin, including production zones or supplying cooperatives, and commit to food safety.

Markets can also enhance convenience by offering meal kits with spices included, pre-order options for pickup, or partnering with local delivery services to bring goods straight to customers' doors.

Upgrading market spaces for cleanliness, modernity, tourism appeal

Historic markets like Ben Thanh, Tan Dinh, and Binh Tay carry cultural and architectural value. With proper renovation, clear zoning, and improved signage, they could become popular stops for both local and international tourists.

Stalls can be redesigned to look more appealing and accessible, possibly adding automatic audio guides through QR codes, vendor introductions, and displays of signature items to help visitors appreciate the markets' history and charm.

Hosting thematic markets, engaging youth

To appeal to younger generations, traditional markets can host themed events like "Old and new dishes market," "Zero-waste market," or "Three-region food festival," accompanied by musical performances, street art, check-in corners, and small workshops, such as making traditional cakes, pickling, or cooking local dishes.

When markets evolve into places for both shopping and cultural experiences, they can retain the interest of younger generations rather than being seen as outdated.

If traditional markets are restructured with a modern approach, selective product focus, and enriched with cultural and experiential elements, they can coexist and thrive alongside e-commerce.

Preserving traditional markets means preserving part of the soul of the city. It's a way to add character and uniqueness to Ho Chi Minh City as it continues its journey of global integration.

Contribute ideas to develop Ho Chi Minh City's industry, commerce

Tuoi Tre newspaper, in collaboration with the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade, has launched the forum 'Contributing Ideas for Industrial and Commercial Development in Ho Chi Minh City.'

The initiative invites ideas and proposals from businesses, researchers, and citizens to build a stronger industrial-commercial-service economy with international competitiveness.

According to Bui Ta Hoang Vu, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade, the department values and welcomes all public feedback, which will be used to advise the city's leadership on breakthrough development strategies.

Readers can send contributions to Tuoi Tre at 60A Hoang Van Thu Street, Duc Nhuan Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, or by email to: kinhte@tuoitre.com.vn.