Civilized forms of trade are gradually being expanded.

The network of trade infrastructure is gradually expanding; modern and civilized forms of trade continue to be encouraged for investment and development. The system of supermarkets, shopping centers, convenience stores, self-service shops, and retail chains has rapidly increased in number and scale, spreading across urban and rural areas, including remote mountainous regions. This expansion facilitates the exchange of goods, stimulates production, and boosts consumer demand, benefiting the local population.

According to recent statistics, the entire province currently has 1 shopping center, 4 supermarkets, 34 electronics and mobile phone stores under the brand chains Thế giới di động, FPTShop, and Mediamart, 16 mini supermarkets under the Winmart+ brand, 90 markets, and 179 gas stations operating to meet the consumption and trade needs of the local people. E-commerce infrastructure is gradually developing, with 100% of supermarkets and shopping centers equipped with cashless payment systems (POS). The flow of goods is consistently ensured, markets are stable, and the supply of essential goods for production and business is well maintained. In reality, as living standards rise, shopping habits and consumer behavior have significantly changed. At supermarkets, shopping centers, and convenience stores, people not only shop but also enjoy entertainment, leisure activities, and benefit from various promotional policies. Along with selecting quality goods with clear origins and stringent quality control, supermarkets are also focusing on offering unique shopping experiences to attract and retain customers. Each year, total retail sales increase, with retail sales in 2024 expected to reach 35.873 trillion VND, marking a 14.49% increase compared to the previous year. In the first two months of 2025, retail sales are estimated at 6.51 trillion VND, reflecting a 10.86% increase compared to the same period last year.

In addition to the supermarket and convenience store networks, traditional markets have also been invested in and developed in a socialized manner. These markets have successfully transitioned to modern management, business, and operational models. After the transition, businesses and cooperatives have actively mobilized capital to carry out infrastructure investment projects aimed at modernizing and professionalizing market operations, thus enhancing the quality of trade activities in the area. With the rapid expansion in the number and scale of convenience stores, self-service shops, supermarkets, and traditional markets, there has been a significant boost in the consumption of locally produced and imported goods. This growth has contributed to an increase in total retail sales and service revenues for the local economy, supporting both production and meeting the consumption needs of the people.

With the goal of developing commerce in a modern direction, in the coming period, departments, agencies, and local governments will continue to implement solutions and plans to develop trade infrastructure in a synchronized and modern manner, combining traditional commerce with e-commerce. This approach will ensure alignment with the level of market development in each locality and region. At the same time, policies will be created and implemented to support businesses in their commercial activities. Additionally, resources will be focused on investing in and gradually completing the infrastructure network for the sector, including markets, supermarkets, shopping centers, large stores, and wholesale and retail networks in each area. This will create favorable conditions for the harmonious and rational development of the trade sector. Efforts will also be made to effectively implement policies for trade development, with a particular focus on improving trade infrastructure in rural and mountainous areas to boost the local economy and improve the lives of the people.

Hanh Nguyen

Translated by Huyen Vu