The “Pig Market” in Binh Luc, Ha Nam, has long been a familiar destination, attracting traders from various provinces. It’s rare to find a pig market quite like this one in Northern Vietnam. The market got its name from being a specialized trading place for pigs. What makes it unique is that pigs from all over the country are gathered here before being distributed to slaughterhouses nationwide.
Visitors can freely choose, trade, and bargain over pigs or simply observe the “super lean” pigs gathered from different regions.
Historically, Binh Luc, Ha Nam, was a poor rural area, mainly relying on pig farming. As pig farming developed, households began forming a spontaneous pig market along the inter-district road from Ho Bridge (Trung Luong commune) through An Noi to Boi Cau commune.
This spontaneous pig market caused several problems, including traffic congestion and environmental pollution, by encroaching on the road corridor. Recognizing this issue, the Ha Nam People’s Committee planned and constructed a livestock and poultry trading center in Boi Cau commune to facilitate centralized trading.
With an area of over 12,000 square meters, the market is divided into three pigpen rows, each comprising 41 pens, and began operating officially in 2013. Thanks to this reasonable arrangement, traffic congestion has been alleviated, making trading more convenient for traders.
Every day, from the early morning, traders from numerous provinces bring pigs to the Ha Nam trading center. On a cold day, the market is bustling by 6 a.m. Hundreds of large and small trucks carrying herds of pigs line up to enter the market. The pigs gathered here are mainly porkers, weighing between 80 and 150 kg, originating from various provinces such as Ha Nam, Nam Dinh, Thai Binh, Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An…
However, since 2018, due to a drop in pork prices, many pig farmers suffered losses and quit the business, resulting in a significant decrease in the number of pigs brought to the market, ranging from 300 to 500 pigs per day. The average monthly transaction volume fluctuates between 9,000 and 15,000 pigs.
The market management board collaborates with relevant agencies and the Veterinary Department to inspect and control the quality of goods, ensuring clear pig origins and meeting market supply standards to protect consumers’ rights.
Except for the first day of the Lunar New Year, the “Pig Market” is always bustling, operating from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily, with the busiest time being around 9-10 a.m. Traders gather in large numbers, bustling with price negotiations.
In the pens, traders surround the pigs to bargain, creating a lively trading atmosphere. Pork prices here are not fixed but fluctuate with market conditions. If there are fewer buyers, prices drop, and when demand increases, prices rise.
Traders mark the pigs with their unique signs to avoid confusion. If pigs are not sold out during the day, owners can leave them in the pens for sale the next day. Previously, each pig kept in the pens incurred a fee of VND 5,000–10,000, but this regulation has been abolished to encourage traders to bring pigs to the market. However, when pigs are taken out, each pig is charged VND 5,000.
This fee collection ensures a transparent business environment and helps control the supply. The market management has also constructed pens for unsold pigs, parking lots, water tanks, and toilets to support traders.
When the market was first established, the entrance fee was controversial, causing many traders to avoid the market and sell by the roadside, affecting traffic. To address this, the management board removed the entrance fee and now only collects an exit fee when pigs are taken out.
What makes the “Pig Market” unique is its dynamic pricing, which changes daily. Once the buyer and seller agree on a price, a whole truckload of pigs, sometimes several dozen, can be traded immediately. Sometimes, a truckload of pigs can be sold within minutes of arriving, especially if the buyer is a regular customer or easy to deal with. After each transaction, it is customary for the parties to shake hands and wish each other success in business, creating a friendly and close atmosphere in this special market.
Unveiling Vietnam’s “Mini Bali”: Immerse in Breathtaking Coral Reefs and Pristine Blue Waters.
Nestled south of the island city of Phu Quoc lies a hidden gem of an island, a nature lover’s paradise with pristine beauty. This idyllic spot, dubbed a “Mini Bali”, boasts crystal clear waters, powdery white sands, and a stunning coral reef that sits just a meter below the surface. A true natural wonder, this island is quickly becoming a sought-after destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable tropical escape.
The Four Vietnamese Temples That Enshrine Buddha’s Sacred Relics
The sacred Buddha’s relics will embark on a momentous journey from India to Vietnam, in conjunction with the United Nations Vesak celebrations in 2025. These revered relics will be hosted by four prominent temples across the southern and northern regions of the country.
Enchanting Nature’s Embrace: Unveiling 6 Idyllic Spots in the Serene ‘Muse of the Northwest’
About 140km from Hanoi, Mai Chau is a picturesque destination, offering a tranquil escape into untouched nature. With its serene beauty and idyllic charm, it is the perfect getaway for those seeking to immerse themselves in the raw and pristine surroundings. Discover the top 6 must-visit spots in Mai Chau for a truly enchanting experience.
The Dangers of Excessive Consumption: A Beverage Best Avoided
The liver is an essential organ for detoxifying the body, but did you know that some popular beverages are silently wreaking havoc on your liver? These drinks can be just as damaging as alcohol, if not more.
Unveiling Hanoi’s Student Hub: A Shopping Paradise, Day and Night, Bargain with Caution
If you’re a student or a traveler on the hunt for a bustling and affordable shopping destination in Hanoi, look no further than Phung Khoang Market. This vibrant marketplace offers a unique and exciting shopping experience that caters perfectly to those seeking a blend of variety, value for money, and a lively atmosphere.
