HCMC – Shopping demand in HCMC has risen sharply since early December, driven by preparations for the Lunar New Year, reported the Vietnam News Agency.
Retail chains reported higher customer traffic, particularly for Tet-related goods. Consumers are buying gift items and products with long shelf lives, such as confectionery, soft drinks and processed foods, taking advantage of promotional programs.
Nguyen Duc Toan, managing director of MM Mega Market Vietnam, said year-end demand has increased strongly. The retailer has raised inventories by 20% from the same period last year.
Food processing plants have also stepped up production. Output has risen by 15% to 30% compared with the third quarter. Many companies began adding extra shifts from early November to meet Tet delivery schedules.
The city’s Department of Industry and Trade said Tet goods are being actively produced, transported and distributed to retail outlets. Retailers plan to increase Tet inventories by 20% to 50% from last year. Price-stabilized goods are expected to account for 25% to 43% of the market, helping to regulate supply and support consumption.
The HCMC Food and Foodstuff Association said both supply and demand are rising strongly ahead of Tet, reflecting a recovery in the retail market.
However, businesses face pressure from higher input costs, including raw materials and logistics, the association said.
