
During the summer, the seafood selection at Giao Hai Market is abundant and diverse, offering a wide range of options such as squid, shrimp, crab, shrimp, sole, stingray, mackerel, silver bream, and more. The short operating time of the local fishing boats, which usually return to shore after just 10 to 12 hours, ensures that the seafood remains fresh and ice-free, maintaining its high quality and ease of consumption. Notably, the prices here are very competitive, mainly catering to wholesale buyers with rates significantly lower than those in other regional markets.
The market operates twice daily: in the morning from 5 am to 7 am and in the afternoon from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Prices fluctuate depending on the tide, and purchasing in bulk can lead to even better deals. For instance, certain types of fish are available for as little as 20,000 to 35,000 VND per kilogram.
At the market, seafood is clearly categorized based on quality. Shrimp, crab, and shrimp are divided into three grades: “first-grade” denotes larger specimens with firmer meat and eggs; “second-grade” refers to smaller and less meaty individuals; while “third-grade” includes dead specimens, regardless of size. This grading system results in price variations for each type of seafood.
For instance, first-grade shrimp is priced at 110,000–120,000 VND per kilogram, second-grade at 80,000–90,000, and third-grade at approximately 40,000–50,000. Mackerel of the first grade is sold for 25,000–30,000 VND per kilogram, while the second grade fetches 15,000–20,000. Silver bream, a particular favorite, commands a premium price of 40,000 VND per kilogram for the first grade (large and fresh) from traders, while the second and third grades are sold for 30,000–35,000.
The Giao Hai Fish Market was established to serve as a hub for the sale of seafood caught by local fishermen from Giao Thuy district and neighboring areas. Except for days when the sea is rough, the market operates twice daily, in the morning from 4:30 am to 6:30 am and in the afternoon from 1 pm to 3 pm, coinciding with the arrival of the fishing boats.
The market is always bustling with buyers and sellers, and the constant coming and going of boats bringing in fresh seafood. Smaller boats tend to dock close to the shore, while larger vessels anchor in calmer waters and use smaller boats or rafts to transport their catch to land.
One unique aspect of the Giao Hai Fish Market is the absence of fixed stalls or designated selling areas. Transactions take place directly on the sandy beach, creating a vibrant and dynamic trading atmosphere. Many traders wait for the boats to arrive, and some even wade out to the rafts to select their purchases before they are brought ashore. When the seafood is unloaded, buyers quickly inspect, negotiate, and make their purchases to secure the best deals.
The buying and selling happen at a rapid pace, as everyone aims to secure the freshest produce before it is transported to other markets. Shrimp, crab, shrimp, squid, and fish are quickly snapped up, weighed, and packed in ice-filled containers for further distribution.
Twice a day, the Giao Hai Fish Market buzzes with activity as boats laden with seafood dock and buyers and sellers engage in brisk trade. Since its establishment, the market has not only served as a hub for seafood trade but also provided stable livelihoods for hundreds of local residents.
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