What sets this Saigon market apart is that each stall specializes in a specific type of fabric. So when you visit Soai Kinh Lam market, simply describe the type of fabric you’re looking for, and you’ll be directed to the right stall. As the city’s largest fabric wholesale market, the prices here are incredibly affordable.

According to veteran traders, the name Soai Kinh Lam originates from a large flower shop of the same name located next to the market. This name gradually became familiar and associated with the bustling business of the area. The market was officially established in 1989 when the People’s Committee of District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, implemented a plan to reorganize the fabric and fiber industry, bringing together traders from various areas into Dong Khanh Commercial Center. Additionally, there are many fabric shops on the front streets nearby, such as Duong Tu Giang and Do Ngoc Thanh, adding to the vibrancy of the market. This created the largest fabric market in Saigon, marking the beginning of a glorious development period.
The period from 1989 to 1995 marked the golden age of Soai Kinh Lam market, with nearly 1,000 fabric stalls providing abundant resources not only for Ho Chi Minh City but also distributing throughout the country. At its peak, Soai Kinh Lam’s fabric sources even reached Southeast Asian countries, affirming its position as the region’s leading fabric center. Despite going through many ups and downs, and the number of stalls halving compared to its peak, the market still plays a pivotal role in the textile industry, serving as a crucial supplier for thousands of traders, tailors, and fashion designers. Even foreign customers frequently visit to purchase fabric or capture memorable moments in this decades-old market.
Soai Kinh Lam fabric market stands out for its overwhelming diversity of fabrics. From popular and familiar fabrics like cotton, canvas, chiffon, and denim to more luxurious options such as lace, mesh, velvet, and linen, you can find them all here. Beyond clothing fabrics, the market also offers a wide range of specialty fabrics for interior decoration, including curtains, tablecloths, bed linens, and fabrics specifically for performance costumes, ao dai (Vietnamese traditional dress), and suits…
Most of the fabrics sold at Soai Kinh Lam originate from countries renowned for their textile industry, such as China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, India, and Italy. This ensures superior quality in terms of durability, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns, meeting the stringent requirements of customers. A distinctive feature that sets Soai Kinh Lam apart is the specialization of each stall towards a specific type of fabric. This specialization not only helps customers easily locate their desired fabric but also demonstrates professionalism and ensures consistent quality across stalls.
To have an optimal shopping experience and find the right products at reasonable prices in Soai Kinh Lam market, buyers need to equip themselves with some valuable knowledge.
First and foremost, identify your needs before visiting. With countless options ranging from cotton and linen to silk, brocade, and chiffon, knowing exactly what type of fabric you want and its intended use will prevent you from getting lost among the stalls and help you find the right one easily.
Secondly, the timing of your visit is crucial. Early morning is the ideal time to go. At this time, the market is relatively quiet, and traders have more time and are in a better mood to provide advice. Moreover, going early gives you the chance to select the most beautiful rolls of fabric before they are cut and sold in smaller pieces.
A golden rule when buying fabric here is always to compare prices before making a decision. Fabric prices in Soai Kinh Lam are not fixed and may vary depending on the material, design, and quantity purchased. To avoid overpaying, take your time to walk around, and inquire about prices from multiple stalls before making your choice.
In addition to comparing prices, thoroughly inspecting the fabric quality is a crucial step. Higher prices do not always equate to better quality; what matters is finding fabric suitable for your needs. When choosing fabric, use your hands to feel its softness, smoothness, or roughness, and gently pull it to test its elasticity and durability. For thin fabrics like chiffon or voile, hold them up to the light to check their transparency. If you’re purchasing fabric with printed patterns or dark colors, gently rub it to see if the color transfers. Many low-quality fabrics tend to pill or fade after washing, so it’s essential to inspect the fabric thoroughly using your senses and tactile perception.
Finally, when navigating the market, pay extra attention to your personal safety. Soai Kinh Lam market has many stalls in close proximity, and the aisles can be narrow and crowded, especially during peak hours. Keep your bag and phone secure to prevent pickpocketing and ensure a smooth and safe shopping experience.