Pumpkins are in high demand during Halloween.

In Hanoi , streets like Hang Ma and Nghia Tan are filled with all kinds of traditional decorations and toys for this year's Halloween celebration, such as pumpkin lanterns, masks, witch hats, adult costumes, and miniature decorations.

According to observations, selling prices have not fluctuated much compared to last year, ranging from 30,000 to 400,000 VND, depending on the product. However, the market for traditional goods is not very crowded, and purchasing power has decreased significantly.

Ms. Nguyen Thuy Ha, a small business owner on Hang Ma Street, said: "Compared to last year, purchasing power has decreased by 50%. This year, people mainly come to take photos and travel rather than buy goods."

Traditional toys are losing their appeal. Photo: Bich Ngoc

According to Ms. Ha, the sluggish market is partly due to the economic difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic, and partly because the products are not very diverse. "Consumers nowadays prefer something new and unique. They get bored with the same few costume toys every year," Ms. Ha said.

"My shop sells witch masks for children, but everything else sells very slowly. Most people buy miscellaneous accessories and decorate themselves at home," said a small vendor at Hang Ma market.

In contrast to the sluggish sales of traditional toys, pumpkins have become a sought-after item, selling well both in traditional markets and online.

Ms. Le Ngoc, owner of a fruit shop in Hoan Kiem district, said: "This is the second year I've imported pumpkins to sell. Some are from Da Lat, some are imported from abroad, but you have to order early because there won't be any available closer to the date. To make it convenient for customers, I also sell online; if customers need them, I deliver them right to their door."

According to Ms. Ngoc, the selling price ranges from 180,000 to 300,000 VND/kg, depending on the weight, with each pumpkin costing around 7 million VND. Besides giant pumpkins, the store also offers other varieties such as swan pumpkins and space pumpkins, which are also highly sought after.

"Pumpkins symbolize wealth and good fortune, so on holidays, I buy them to decorate my cafe so customers can take photos. I prefer swan-shaped or mini pumpkins because they're affordable and quite unique," said Ms. Nhu Thao from Cau Giay District, Hanoi.

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