Strengthening Food Safety Oversight at Key Wholesale Markets in Ho Chi Minh City

Every night, Binh Dien wholesale market processes nearly 1,800 tons of food, playing a pivotal role in the supply chain for HCMC and surrounding areas. However, controlling food safety at the source and the lengthy wait for test results remain significant challenges.

On the night of August 4th, an inspection team from the HCMC People's Council, led by Vice Chairman Huynh Thanh Nhan, inspected food safety measures at Binh Dien wholesale market in Binh Dong Ward. The team also held meetings with representatives from Hoc Mon and Thu Duc wholesale markets, along with relevant authorities.

According to the Binh Dien Market Management Company, in the first six months of 2026, the average daily volume of goods reached 1,775 tons, with a daily circulation value of approximately 129 billion VND. Seafood accounts for 845 tons, agricultural products 750 tons, and pork 180 tons. The market supplies 35% of the city's pork and over 70% of its seafood market share.

Regarding management procedures, merchants are required to declare the volume and origin of goods before entering the market. For imported goods, documentation must include customs declarations, quarantine certificates, certificates of origin, and transport invoices. Notably, all 1,564 pigs processed daily are tagged for traceability.

Although 980 samples were tested for borax, pesticide residues, formol, and dyes with no initial violations found, management remains difficult. Ms. Vu Yen Oanh, Vice Chair of Binh Dong Ward People's Committee, acknowledged that the inspection force is thin and equipment for sampling and preservation is limited, while data remains unsynchronized.

A concerning finding is that quantitative test results from designated laboratories usually take 4 to 5 days. During this time, shipments may have already been sold and cleared from the market before results are even available.

Vice Chairman Huynh Thanh Nhan stated: 'Achieving 100% clean food is difficult, but all food entering wholesale markets must be under control. We cannot use difficulties as an excuse to relax oversight.' He urged the HCMC Food Safety Department to propose solutions regarding personnel, equipment, and compensation for inspection staff.

The inspection team also directed wholesale markets to review their compliance with national technical regulations for agricultural, forestry, and fishery wholesale markets. Supply and quality control plans must be established promptly, especially in preparation for the year-end peak season and the upcoming Lunar New Year.