The Eccentric and Unusual Vĩnh Long Market: From a “Mistake” to a Bustling Bazaar with Hundreds of Products

Following this unexpected success, many other merchants quickly realized the potential and chose Tuesdays as their trading day. Gradually, a market was naturally formed and became an important commercial hub in the area.

The most unique feature of this Tuesday market is the harmonious combination of a floating market and a land market, giving rise to the folk saying, “selling your face to the earth and your back to the river,” – a characteristic image of the Mekong Delta region.

From 5 am, when the dawn is yet to fully break, trading boats from neighboring provinces such as An Giang, Đồng Tháp, and Cần Thơ, start arriving at the market one by one. Many merchants have to set off as early as 2-3 am to reach the market early and secure a favorable location.

Around 7 am is when the market reaches its peak of bustling activities. The loud hawking of goods resonates throughout the usually tranquil countryside, blending with the sound of water lapping against the boat hulls to create a distinctive melody unique to this river market.

Two Areas, Countless Products

The Tuesday market is divided into two main areas, each with its distinct characteristics, catering to the diverse needs of locals and tourists.

The “dry goods” area on the shore focuses on fabrics, ready-made garments, household items, and footwear. Notably, the prices here are always reasonable, attracting many buyers, especially women from nearby villages.

Meanwhile, the “wet goods” area, which is the floating market on the river, specializes in Mekong Delta delicacies such as lóc fish paste, snakehead fish paste, sặt fish paste, and silver barb fish paste, along with various dried products like snakehead fish, catfish, squid, and shrimp. The distinctive aromas of these pastes and dried goods permeate the entire market space, creating an atmosphere unique to this floating market.

Additionally, there is a section dedicated to selling organically grown vegetables and fruit, as well as plant seeds like papaya, beans, and eggplants, which are favored by the locals.

More Than Just a Trading Place

The Tuesday market is more than just a place for commerce; it is a distinctive cultural space that showcases the daily life and character of the Southern people. It is considered a unique cultural feature of Quới An commune, a civilized trading venue, and a preserver of the traditions of the Mekong Delta region.

One admirable aspect of this market is the honesty in transactions. Sellers do not overquote prices or sell inferior goods, fostering a healthy trading environment that earns the trust and support of the locals.

The market also serves as a gathering place for farmers to exchange information and share agricultural experiences. Many long-lasting business relationships have been established through these weekly market meetings.

Aims for Sustainable Development

Recognizing the importance of this market to the local economy and culture, the authorities of Quới An commune have devised a long-term development plan for this special market. As per the plan, the administrative area will be relocated to make way for the market’s expansion on a 1.4-hectare plot, facilitating smoother trading activities.

The orientation to develop the market into a tourist destination that promotes traditional cultural values while boosting the local economy has garnered attention and investment from the local government. Expanding the market space will not only benefit trading activities but also provide convenience to shoppers.

In the era of supermarkets, convenience stores, and e-commerce, the Tuesday market has retained its unique charm and continued to flourish. This proves that traditional cultural values can coexist with modern lifestyles.

Every week, the Tuesday market consistently serves as a cultural and commercial hub, preserving the beautiful traditions of commerce amidst the currents of time.

The Tuesday market is not merely a place for trading; it is a sanctuary that safeguards the cultural essence of the Mekong Delta region. This invaluable cultural asset deserves to be cherished and promoted by all.

With its distinctive cultural and economic values, the Tuesday market in Quới An commune, Vũng Liêm district, has solidified its position as an appealing destination, embodying the distinct culture of Vĩnh Long province in particular and the Mekong Delta region in general.