Only one day remains before the Lunar New Year, but the atmosphere at flower markets in Ho Chi Minh City remains sluggish. Many vendors express their concerns as the number of customers buying flowers for Tet is very low, despite prices having dropped significantly compared to previous years.
Sluggish Business at Flower Markets
Flowers for Tet are displayed along Hoang Minh Giam Street at Gia Dinh Park.
At the flower market in Gia Dinh Park (Go Vap District), various types of flowers such as chrysanthemums, apricot blossoms, peach trees, and ornamental oranges are spread out along Hoang Minh Giam Street. However, the number of shoppers is sparse, leaving many vendors feeling anxious. Ms. Nguyen Thi My (48), originally from Ben Tre, shared: “From morning until noon, I haven’t sold any plants; people just walk around without buying.”
According to observations, although this year’s flowers have had a good harvest and prices are about 40% lower than last year, demand remains weak. Mr. Nguyen Van Thuy (56), also from Ben Tre, brought 2,000 pots of flowers to Ho Chi Minh City for sale starting from the 22nd day of the lunar month, but by the 28th day, he had only managed to sell around 600 pots. “Flowers are cheaper this year, but buyers offer too low prices, which don’t cover costs,” Mr. Thuy said.
People Saving During Tet
A resident buys only a few small pots of flowers to save on expenses.
This year, many families are cutting back on spending during Tet due to economic difficulties. Some residents mentioned that they are only purchasing inexpensive flowers like vạn thọ or ornamental oranges instead of more expensive varieties. “I hope things get better next year,” one resident expressed.
Trend Toward Sunflowers
Sunflowers have become a new choice for residents.
Instead of traditional flowers like chrysanthemums, apricot blossoms, and peaches, many residents in Ho Chi Minh City are opting for sunflowers. These flowers cost between 200,000 and 300,000 Vietnamese dong per pair and take half a year to grow. This shift helps vendors improve their sales somewhat, but it still isn’t enough to solve the oversupply issue.
Worries of Farmers and Vendors
A vendor falls asleep due to the lack of customers.
Not only at Gia Dinh Park, but also at the flower market in 23/9 Park (District 1), there is a similar situation with very few actual buyers despite the presence of many passersby. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Tuoai (63), from Chợ Lách, Ben Tre, shared: “We hope to sell everything quickly so we can go home for Tet, but after investing our capital and effort all year, we must persevere.”
Conclusion
The oversupply of Tet flowers reflects not only economic challenges but also poses significant problems for vendors and farmers. To overcome these difficulties, support from local authorities and effective marketing strategies are needed to stimulate consumer demand. Let’s come together to support hardworking individuals so they can have a peaceful and fulfilling Tet.
Trucks carrying Tet flowers bring hope to every household.
