A survey of traditional markets in Ho Chi Minh City (TP HCM) shows that many vegetable prices have climbed by 20-50% compared to last month.

Specifically, Da Lat broccoli, for instance, climbed from approximately 45,000 VND to 65,000 VND per kg, an increase of over 40%. Green cabbage and bok choy also rose to 45,000-50,000 VND per kg, up around 25-33%.

Herbs and spices saw even sharper increases. Green onions, cilantro, and basil currently cost around 70,000 VND per kg, up 25,000 VND from last month, equivalent to 55,6%. Red chili peppers also rose to 80,000-90,000 VND per kg.

Not only in retail markets, but vegetable prices at wholesale markets have also edged up as supply from growing regions decreased. At Thu Duc and Hoc Mon wholesale markets, many types of vegetables and tubers increased by 2,000-15,000 VND per kg compared to last month.

Ms. Hoa, a vendor at Xom Moi market in An Hoi Dong ward, stated that over the past two weeks, the volume of vegetables reaching the market has significantly decreased. Some varieties, such as spinach and sweet cabbage, have seen their supply halved. Cilantro is particularly scarce, difficult to cultivate in the rainy season; some days, Ms. Hoa arrives late at the wholesale market and finds no stock available.

For broccoli, napa cabbage, and regular cabbage imported from China, supply has also decreased, causing prices to rise by an average of around 15%, according to Ms. Hoa.

A vegetable stall at Xom Moi market, An Hoi Dong ward on the morning of 23/9. *Photo: Thi Ha*

The shortage of goods is more apparent from the producing regions. Mr. Le Van Giay, Director of Muoi Hai Safe Vegetable Cooperative in Tay Ninh, formerly part of Long An, reported that heavy rain has cut the cooperative's vegetable yield by 20-30%, despite their investment in net houses. Some varieties, like sweet cabbage, are difficult to plant and care for under these weather conditions.

Under normal conditions, the cooperative supplies over 3 tons of vegetables daily. Currently, production is down to approximately 2,5 tons, leaving the cooperative unable to meet delivery commitments for some partners.

According to Mr. Giay, if the rain continues, vegetable prices could rise further next week, particularly for herbs and spices, which are inherently challenging to cultivate and highly susceptible to weather.

Thi Ha