Third day of Tet: The goods market becomes vibrant again.

(Chinhphu.vn) - From the morning of the third day of Tet (Lunar New Year), the commercial infrastructure system nationwide has become more bustling. Many large supermarkets and shopping centers such as Saigon Co.op, Central Retail, MM Mega Market, Lotte Mart, AEON, WinMart, GO!, and AEON Mall have simultaneously reopened, maintaining an abundant supply.

From the morning of the 3rd, commercial infrastructure across the country became more bustling.

According to information from the Department of Domestic Market Management and Development ( Ministry of Industry and Trade ), on the third day of the Lunar New Year 2026 (Year of the Horse), the nationwide goods market began to become more active again after the first two days of the new year, but overall purchasing power remained significantly lower than the peak period leading up to Tet. Most people continued to spend their time resting, traveling, and visiting relatives; essential shopping needs had been prepared in advance, so transactions on that day were mainly supplementary, without any sudden spikes.

At local markets, the number of stalls increased significantly compared to the first and second days of Tet. Convenience stores continued to remain open throughout the holiday, meeting the flexible shopping needs of the people. Overall, the circulation of goods proceeded smoothly, with no disruptions in supply or localized shortages recorded.

According to reports from various localities, consumer demand today is mainly focused on fresh food items such as green vegetables, seafood, pork, and beef to supplement meals at the beginning of the year. In addition, items for spiritual purposes such as fresh flowers, fruit for offerings, and preparations for the burning of offerings continue to maintain stable demand.

In terms of price levels, the market has remained basically at a similar level to the period leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year). Any slight increases have only occurred locally at some small retail outlets. At supermarket chains, prices are fixed, and many items are even discounted or promoted, contributing to maintaining consumer confidence. Overall, the supply and demand of goods are balanced, and the market operates according to normal rules.

Prior to the Lunar New Year, local authorities and businesses began preparing goods for the holiday season early, closely following market demand forecasts. The total value of stockpiled goods increased by approximately 10%-15% compared to a normal month; at some large distribution companies, the amount of essential goods in stock increased by 20%-40%, ensuring that there would be no shortages under any circumstances.

The supply is concentrated on food items, fresh and processed foods, confectionery, beverages, gasoline, and essential consumer goods. Regional linkages and connections between supply and demand in localities, especially between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces and cities, are strengthened, promoting the consumption of regional specialties and OCOP products to meet the needs of holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year).

Simultaneously, market stabilization programs have been widely implemented. To date, 34 provinces and cities have issued plans or reports on the program's implementation. In Hanoi, 19 units are participating with approximately 10,700 sales points; in Ho Chi Minh City, more than 89 units are participating, with stabilized goods accounting for 23% to 43% of the market share depending on the product group, sufficient to regulate the market when necessary. Businesses commit to selling at prices 5%-10% lower than market prices and maintaining stable prices before, during, and after Tet (Lunar New Year).

Ensure the supply of petroleum products and prevent disruptions.

Regarding petroleum products, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has allocated a minimum total supply of nearly 31.8 million m³/tons in 2026, averaging approximately 2.65 million m³/tons per month, ensuring that economic growth targets and consumer demand are met. Wholesale and distribution traders are required to maintain circulating reserves in accordance with regulations, ensuring sufficient supply to the retail system and preventing any disruptions in supply, including localized disruptions.

According to reports from the Departments of Industry and Trade, as of February 19, 2026, the nationwide retail gasoline station system is operating stably, with no instances of illegal closures, speculation, hoarding, or unreasonable price increases detected. Retail prices are being implemented according to the price adjustment period of February 12, 2026, and businesses are strictly complying with price listing and selling at the correct prices.

Along with ensuring supply, market management forces are conducting intensive inspections and controls before, during, and after Tet, focusing on essential goods, food, alcoholic beverages, confectionery, tobacco, cosmetics, electronics, firecrackers, etc. Supervision is being expanded to warehouses, collection points, wholesale markets, shopping centers, and business activities in the e-commerce environment.

During the reporting period, the market remained generally stable, with no major incidents related to smuggling, counterfeit goods, or large-scale food safety violations recorded. No illegal trading of firecrackers was detected.

On the fourth day of the Lunar New Year and the following days, many supermarkets, convenience stores, and traditional markets will reopen with a wider variety of goods. However, purchasing power is not expected to increase significantly as people are still on holiday. Consumer demand will continue to focus on fresh food, vegetables, and fruits; food service and tourism activities in major cities, tourist attractions, and temples will be more vibrant.

Prices of essential goods are forecast to remain stable; at traditional markets, food prices may decrease slightly as supply increases again. Overall, the market for the Lunar New Year 2026 is developing positively, with a balanced supply and demand, and no unusual price increases, contributing to social welfare and creating a sense of security for people in the early days of the new year.

Anh Tho

Source: https://baochinhphu.vn/mung-3-tet-thi-truong-hang-hoa-soi-dong-tro-lai-102260219104205166.htm