HCM City, Sept. 3 -- Ho Chi Minh City's retail market recorded a sharp rise in purchasing power during the National Day holidays from August 30 to September 2, with supermarkets, shopping centres, and traditional markets all reporting strong consumer demand.

Food, personal care products, and school supplies were among the fastest-growing categories, fueling momentum for the city's target of 18% annual trade growth.

Over the four-day holidays, retail systems reported bustling shopping and leisure activities. At MM Mega Market Vietnam, customer traffic rose 15-20% compared to regular days, peaking in the afternoon and evening. Sales of dry and essential goods doubled, while fresh produce sales rose 18% year-on-year.

"Anticipating higher ...