On September 7, 2024, a survey by reporters at several large local markets in Hanoi, including Nguyen Cong Tru, Thanh Cong, Hom-Duc Vien, Gia Thuy, and Nguyen Thi Thap markets, revealed that many residents had gone out to purchase food and supplies. However, the storm’s impact left many kiosks and stalls closed, with only a few selling pork, vegetables, poultry, and fruits.
As of today, the markets have resumed normal operations, but the aftermath of the storm has left the premises in disarray, with plastic sheets, tarpaulins, and fallen trees scattered everywhere. Despite this, some residents shared that they were able to shop for fresh produce without significant difficulties. However, the heavy rain and storm have made it challenging for farmers to harvest and transport vegetables, leading to a decrease in supply, especially for leafy greens.
As a result, prices for vegetables have increased compared to regular days. For instance, water spinach, sweet potato leaves, and basella cost 30,000 VND per bundle, while Chinese cabbage ranges from 30,000 to 35,000 VND per kg. Lettuce is priced at 40,000-45,000 VND per kg, and root vegetables and fruits fluctuate between 45,000 and 50,000 VND per kg. String beans, also known as “đậu đũa,” are sold at 45,000 VND per kg. Mr. Hung, a trader at Long Bien Market, explained that the heavy rain and storm have made harvesting and transportation challenging, leading to the significant price increase.
On the other hand, root vegetables like carrots and potatoes have remained relatively stable in price, with carrots selling at 25,000 VND per kg and potatoes at 20,000 VND per kg. Sweet potatoes range from 20,000 to 25,000 VND per kg, and squash is priced at 25,000 VND per kg. Contrary to the vegetable price surge, meat prices in traditional markets have not seen significant changes. Traders shared that the stable supply of meat from various livestock farms has kept prices from spiking during the stormy weather.
Meanwhile, observations at supermarket systems this morning revealed a different picture. Supermarket staff were busy restocking shelves with a wide range of fresh produce, meat, and other essentials. At a BRG supermarket in Long Bien, for example, employees shared that they had almost run out of fresh produce and meat on September 7 due to high customer demand. However, as of September 8, the supermarket has been restocked with fresh vegetables, pork, chicken, beef, and various types of fish, providing customers with a diverse selection of options.
Similarly, Big C Thang Long supermarket is offering promotions on several essential items, including eggs, milk, rice, duck and chicken meat, and vegetables. A representative from Big C Thang Long shared that they have increased their stock by 300%, focusing on essential product groups like vegetables, meat, and fish. Many items are being sold at discounted prices before and after the storm to support the community.
Mr. Le Van Liem, Director of Saigon Co.op in the North, stated that after the storm, Co.opmart stores in the region resumed normal operations, maintaining stable prices and offering free phone charging and water to customers. Due to temporary transportation challenges, Co.opmart stores in the North have adjusted their offerings to ensure food safety and quality. They have increased the supply of frozen pork and imported frozen chicken. Fresh pork from domestic suppliers will also be available soon.
By the evening of September 7, Co.opmart supermarkets had restocked their meat sections and sourced additional vegetables from Phu Tho for Hanoi. They also received supplies from Dalat in the South. Despite the challenges posed by the storm, Co.opmart has committed to maintaining stable prices and not increasing the cost of any goods to support the community during this difficult time.
Similarly, Winmart stores have ample supplies of fresh produce, MEAT Deli pork products, poultry eggs, and fresh fruits. A representative from the Winmart system shared that their proactive sourcing of vegetables from farms and enterprises within their parent company’s system has ensured a steady supply of fresh produce and meat. Additionally, Winmart, WinMart+, and WIN stores will be offering discounts on various types of vegetables and MEAT Deli pork products.
A quick survey at Winmart Times City (Hai Ba Trung District) revealed that the number of customers has decreased compared to previous days. Prices for some vegetables are lower than those at local markets. For instance, cabbage is sold at 22,000 VND per kg, water spinach at 15,900 VND per kg, and green mustard at 12,900 VND per kg. The shelves are fully stocked with chicken and pork products.
Ms. Nguyen Kieu Oanh, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade, stated that to prevent traders from taking advantage of the storm to increase prices and destabilize the market, the department has instructed districts and towns to strengthen inspection and supervision of business activities. They are also guiding and inspecting business households to ensure stable prices for essential consumer goods.
Measures have been implemented to prevent price gouging and hoarding, contributing to the prevention of speculation and profiteering during the storm. Additionally, the department is inspecting the implementation of reserve goods for relief purposes, ensuring the principle of “4 on-site” (local forces, materials, command, and logistics).
Furthermore, the Hanoi Department of Industry and Trade has requested that production and business enterprises proactively plan and prepare reserves of essential goods based on their production and business plans and capabilities. This includes ensuring sufficient quantities and maintaining the quality and food hygiene and safety of the products, especially those with high consumption during the rainy season, such as processed cereal products, bottled water, processed meat and fish products, rice, candles, boxed milk, rubber boots, flashlights, and raincoats.
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Green vegetables, abundant food, no price increase during Tet
During the Lunar New Year of the Rat, there is an abundance of goods available, but the purchasing power is weak and prices remain stable. High-demand items such as vegetables, fruits, and seafood flood the wholesale markets in major cities and begin to rise.
Busy Lunar New Year Market and Supermarket open for customers throughout the night on the 27th.
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Shop till you drop
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