Hanoi, Jan. 22 -- Beer is often a best seller during the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival but many retailers have been forced to lower their prices to encourage customers to buy.

Sales of beer have dropped dramatically after the Government's announced a crackdown on drink drivers.

Nguyen Van Dinh, owner of a shop selling imported wine and beer in Hang Huong Alley, Hoan Kiem district in Hanoi told Vietnam News: "This time last year, I did not have enough beer to sell. This year, I just sit here waiting for orders."

To encourage customers, Dinh knocks off 15,000 VND for every 24 pack of Saigon Special, offering at 285,000 VND.

But despite reducing the prices, Dinh has not seen as many customers as he hoped. He estimates a 70 percent drop c...