Small business owners in the 4.0 era

(Baothanhhoa.vn) - For generations, the image of small traders in traditional markets has been closely associated with the distinctive culture of the Vietnamese people. But now, as the digital age permeates every aspect of life, a new class of small traders is quietly transforming – they are the "4.0 traders" who know how to use QR codes, cashless payments, sell goods through social media, livestream orders, and record revenue using mobile applications...

Small traders at Dien Bien market are using QR codes for payment, gradually embracing digital transformation.

The story of Ms. Nguyen Thi Phuong, a 43-year-old vegetable vendor at Vuon Hoa Market, is a prime example. Once only familiar with bundles of vegetables, scales, and cash, Ms. Phuong now uses her smartphone to take orders, scan QR codes for payments via Momo and Viettel Money, and even posts pictures of fresh vegetables on Zalo for regular customers to pre-order.

"In the first few months of learning to use technology, I was really clumsy. Sometimes I scanned the wrong thing, sometimes I entered the wrong price. But I gradually got used to it. Now, every morning I even receive orders in advance via phone, prepare everything, and when customers come to pick it up, I go right away, saving time. On days when the vegetables look good, I post them on Facebook and they sell out quickly," Ms. Phuong said with a smile.

This change is not only a step forward in trading methods, but also reflects the new mindset of those who were once attached to the old ways. While in the past, small traders in markets were often labeled as "reluctant to change, outdated," many have now proven the opposite, demonstrating their ability to adapt to new things, provided they have access to the right resources and support.

According to the Thanh Hoa Department of Industry and Trade, from 2024 to the present, more than 2,500 small traders in markets throughout the province have received training on cashless payments and digital sales skills. Markets such as Dien Bien (Hac Thanh ward), But Son (Hoang Loc commune), and Cot Do (Sam Son ward)... have been implementing the "civilized market - digital market" model with the support of technology companies and credit institutions. Notably, female traders account for 85% of those registered to participate in digital transformation at the markets, demonstrating the important role of women in this journey.

Beyond simply scanning QR codes or using e-wallets, many small business owners are proactively promoting their products on online sales channels. In Tinh Gia ward, Ms. Do Thi Nhan, a small business owner specializing in dried goods at Cong Market, has successfully built a shop on her personal Facebook page, combining it with live stream sales every afternoon.

"I jokingly call it the virtual afternoon market. Regular customers from Hanoi and Hai Phong also buy my shrimp paste and dried shrimp regularly. Some days, there are so many orders that I have to ask my daughter to help with packing," Ms. Nhan said.

Behind this transformation lies the persistent effort of many people who initially lacked technological background. Some had to borrow smartphones from their children or grandchildren to learn how to operate them. Others taught themselves step-by-step, learning as they went along. They were supported by training courses organized regularly by the Department of Industry and Trade and telecommunications companies. In particular, many programs on digital small business ownership, led by women in technology, implemented in collaboration with the Provincial Women's Union, have become a cornerstone for thousands of female small business owners to boldly step out of their comfort zones.

The Chairwoman of the Provincial Women's Union, Ngo Thi Hong Hao, shared: “Most female small business owners, especially the older ones, are often hesitant about smartphones and even more reluctant to install applications. Many honestly admit, 'I'm very 'technologically illiterate,' I can't use it.' But when union officials patiently go to the market, guide them step-by-step, and help them see the practical benefits, after just a few sessions, they become proficient at scanning codes, filling out orders, and using e-wallets. Digital transformation excludes no one; with the support and determination, anyone can do it.”

However, alongside the "pioneering" small traders, many are still not ready to enter the "digital world." The main reasons stem from apprehension, a lack of technological skills, and limited infrastructure, especially in remote markets. Furthermore, many traditional markets still lack active management or specific incentive policies, slowing down the adoption of technology.

Faced with these obstacles, Thanh Hoa province is developing a comprehensive plan to promote the modernization of traditional markets. In addition to upgrading infrastructure, the province will accelerate the digitalization of market management processes, digitize trader information, apply cameras and electronic price lists, and especially popularize appropriate technological solutions for each target group. Alongside this, honoring and inspiring exemplary "4.0 traders" will also be promoted to create a ripple effect in the community.

Traditional markets are not disappearing; instead, they are gradually transforming into modern, transparent, and more organized markets, and most importantly, friendlier for both sellers and buyers. People like Ms. Phuong and Ms. Nhan are not only selling vegetables and dried goods, but are also spreading faith in innovation. They are living examples showing that technology is not a barrier for street vendors, but a bridge helping them move towards the future.

Text and photos: Chi Pham

Source: https://baothanhhoa.vn/tieu-thuong-thoi-4-0-256098.htm