HCMC: Food safety management challenges from 147 spontaneous business points around Hoc Mon wholesale market

On August 17, the supervision delegation of the HCMC People's Council, led by Mr. Huynh Thanh Nhan, Vice Chairman of the HCMC People's Council, conducted a survey on food safety management at the Hoc Mon wholesale market.

Hoc Mon wholesale market plays a crucial role in the city's supply chain with 350 stalls, providing approximately 10-16% of the city's agricultural products. Notably, pork accounts for 30-40% of the supply, equivalent to 4,800 - 5,000 pigs per night. With 10,000 vehicle turns per day, food safety control is an urgent priority.

Reports from market management show that 100% of business households have received certification or signed commitments to ensure food safety. In the first six months of 2026, authorities conducted 218 inspections and tested 120 samples for pesticide residues and leanness-enhancing agents; all samples met the requirements.

However, a paradox exists in the area outside the market with 147 spontaneous business points, exerting significant pressure on food safety and environmental hygiene. A representative of the Xuan Thoi Son Commune People's Committee stated that these points frequently encroach on roads, causing traffic congestion and failing to guarantee food traceability processes.

Mr. Huynh Thanh Nhan emphasized: 'Inside the market, traders are strictly controlled and pay full taxes and fees, while outside, spontaneous businesses do not comply with regulations'. He requested local authorities to move beyond mere reminders and strictly punish violations to act as a deterrent.

Regarding the HCMC Department of Food Safety, Deputy Director Le Minh Hai requested the market management board to strictly implement the 'one step forward, one step backward' traceability principle, ensuring valid invoices and documentation for all goods circulating in the market.