Exploring the Vibrant U Market: A Cultural Hub for Cattle Trade in Vietnam
U Market, the largest cattle market in Vietnam, comes alive every month with six bustling trading days on the 1st, 6th, 11th, 16th, 21st, and 26th of the lunar calendar. Located in Dai Son commune, this market attracts traders and buyers from across the country, as well as foreign traders from China, Laos, and beyond. Its convenient location at the crossroads of Dai Son makes it easily accessible for all.
The market’s history dates back to the 1960s, and it has since grown rapidly to become the vibrant hub it is today. However, due to the high demand, the trade of cattle is no longer dependent on the market days, as numerous gathering, buying, and transferring points for cattle have emerged in the nearby villages, operating daily.
U Market is carefully organized, with separate areas designated for trading buffalo and cattle. The lively atmosphere starts as early as 4-5 am and continues until around 10 am. The animals are sourced from various regions within Vietnam and neighboring countries like Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Thailand. Cattle from Dak Lak province are priced between 13 to 15 million VND, while those from Nghe An province fetch a slightly higher price, ranging from 16 to 18 million VND.
In the past, the selection of buffalo and cattle was a meticulous process for the locals. This was because, traditionally, these animals were considered not just a means of livelihood but also symbols of fortune or misfortune for the family. Superstitions surrounded the purchase of these animals, and people were cautious of buying buffalo with “head tangles, swirled hair, or protruding jaws.” It was believed that such features would lead to a loss of wealth or even bring disaster to the family.
However, in recent years, with the advancement of technology and the replacement of machinery in agriculture, the criteria for selecting buffalo and cattle have evolved. According to long-time traders in the market, the new standard is focused on the animal’s “looi.” Looi refers to the height and length of the animal, indicating its potential for meat production. Buyers inspect the cattle visually or by weighing them.
To gather the large numbers of cattle for trade, a dedicated force of hundreds of laborers is employed to source the animals from far and wide. Traders journey to remote villages and cross borders to Laos and Thailand to hand-pick the buffalo and cattle, which are then transported back to Dai Son commune.
In addition to the bustling market, Dai Son commune is also home to approximately 70 large pens owned by locals, which are rented out to major traders. These pens serve as gathering points for cattle sourced from Laos and Thailand, and daily transactions take place here rather than waiting for the U Market’s trading days. These gathering points generate significant income, with some earning over 200 million VND per month.
The cattle trading profession in Dai Son commune has provided employment and increased income for many locals. Beyond the profits made by the traders, various ancillary professions have emerged, such as motorbike taxi services, money changers, straw sellers, and even buffalo and cattle bathers. Many women and children have taken up the unique profession of “buffalo herding,” leading the animals to and from the market.
U Market is more than just an economic hub; it is a cultural melting pot and a special highlight in the lives of the locals. Each trading day serves as an opportunity for people to connect, exchange stories, and uphold traditional values. Conversations surrounding the buffalo and cattle go beyond mere transactions, delving into personal stories and valuable lessons in animal husbandry and trading.
The market also attracts the attention of domestic and foreign tourists. For first-time visitors, the lively scene of cattle trading, coupled with the warm and sincere nature of the locals, creates a vibrant and authentic cultural experience. Many view the market as a beautiful tradition that deserves preservation and promotion.
However, U Market also faces challenges in the context of modernization. Issues such as environmental pollution, traffic management, and ensuring safety during market days require attention. Local authorities need to implement suitable policies to strike a balance between preserving the market’s cultural value and ensuring sustainable development.
Looking back at its history, U Market is more than just a trading hub; it is a symbol of the cultural and economic heritage of Nghe An province. The value of U Market transcends material benefits, serving as a source of pride for the local community. With its unique character and significance, U Market has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination when exploring the vibrant region of Nghe An.
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