On 11/5, Pham Hoang Tuan, vice chairman of Do Son Ward People's Committee, announced the establishment of a task force. This team will regularly monitor and rectify the issue of "cloth-wrapped" crab sales in the tourist area, following tourist complaints about large, water-soaked cloth being used to increase the crabs' weight.

A tourist reported on 9/5 being offered these crabs by street vendor Nguyen Thi Sen. The tourist recorded the interaction, deeming it a deceptive practice that erodes consumer trust. The vendor, however, explained that the water-soaked cloth helps keep the crabs fresh longer, prevents claw damage, and allows for a "softer" (lower) price compared to crabs sold without ties.

Local residents in Do Son state that the tied crabs sold by street vendors are often of poor quality with less meat. These are typically sold individually for prices ranging from 180,000 VND to 250,000 VND. In contrast, quality crabs are priced at approximately 700,000 VND per kg.

Thirteen cloth-wrapped crabs from Ms. Sen were confiscated by authorities and released back into the wild. *Xuan Hoa*

On 10/5, the ward's task force requested businesses to sign commitments not to sell substandard goods. However, Nguyen Thi Sen refused to comply and continued selling crabs tied with large cloth. Consequently, a report was filed, and 13 crabs were confiscated and released into their natural habitat.

The Do Son District People's Committee affirmed its commitment to preventing street vending, aggressive touting, and substandard business practices that negatively impact the area's tourism image.

Authorities urge residents and tourists not to buy from street vendors. They advise thorough research before making purchases and recommend buying seafood only from establishments with clear addresses and publicly listed prices. In case of any negative experiences, visitors can directly call the ward's hotline for prompt assistance.

Do Son is a renowned and long-standing tourist destination in Hai Phong city. During the recent 30/4-1/5 holiday, the area welcomed 480,000 visitors. The locality is currently focused on enhancing service quality in preparation for the upcoming peak summer tourist season.

By Le Tan