The price of fresh pork in Ho Chi Minh City is twice as high as that of imported pork.

According to Lao Dong newspaper on July 14th, the prices of fresh pork in Ho Chi Minh City are above 100,000 VND. Specifically, pork belly ranges from 150,000-170,000 VND/kg, pork ribs from 180,000-200,000 VND/kg, and pork loin from 140,000-150,000 VND/kg…

"At this price, I only import a moderate amount because buyers will be more mindful of how they spend money on meat for their daily meals," said Ms. Nguyen Bich Lien, a small trader at Hoa Binh Market (District 5).

Supermarkets in Ho Chi Minh City such as Co.op Mart, MM Mega Market, Emart… all have promotional programs and discounts on pork, resulting in more favorable prices compared to traditional markets, ranging from 110,000 to 255,000 VND/kg (depending on the type).

The price of fresh pork at markets in Ho Chi Minh City is higher than the price of imported pork. Photo: Ha May

Meanwhile, imported pork vendors in Tan Phu and Tan Binh districts offer relatively cheap prices: pork leg at 60,000 VND/kg, pork shoulder at 75,000 VND/kg, pork loin at 78,000 VND/kg, and pork belly at 85,000 VND/kg… However, these items have low sales.

"Although imported pork is cheaper, people in Ho Chi Minh City still prefer fresh pork. Most restaurants order imported pork because of its low price and attractive appearance," said an employee at an imported pork store in Tan Phu district.

Regarding the widespread availability of cheap imported pork on the market, the Vietnam Livestock Association believes this has a significant impact on the pig farming industry. They also express concern that low-quality imported products could affect consumer health.

Meanwhile, in informal markets, the price of fresh pork is 20-30% cheaper than in traditional markets because they are not subject to taxes and are not regulated by the authorities.

However, fresh pork sold at these outlets often lacks traceability, quality assurance, and food safety and hygiene standards.

“I often get home late from work, so I occasionally stop by makeshift stalls near my workplace to buy meat and vegetables. The meat there is usually 30,000-40,000 VND cheaper than at the market stalls, but the meat isn't as fresh,” shared Ms. Le Phuong Thao (living in District 12).

According to the Dong Nai Livestock Association, the current low consumption period, coupled with the rainy season, has resulted in a sluggish pork market. However, a significant reason is the ongoing African swine fever outbreak, which has caused farmers to hesitate in restocking their herds.

Speaking to Lao Dong newspaper, Mr. Le Chi Bao, Head of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, said that Ho Chi Minh City has a plan and is strengthening control over animal diseases, including African swine fever.

“Pork from the provinces entering the city must pass through quarantine checkpoints at major transportation hubs. In addition to checking the origin, quantity, and required documentation, we also require the entire transport vehicle to be disinfected to prevent the spread of disease. If any signs of infection are detected, the authorities will take samples for testing, and so far, no incidents have occurred,” Mr. Bao said.

Source: https://laodong.vn/kinh-doanh/gia-thit-heo-tuoi-tai-tphcm-cao-gap-doi-so-voi-thit-heo-nhap-khau-1366108.ldo