The COVID-19 pandemic has spread to more than 50 cities and provinces nationwide. Besides strengthening disease prevention measures, these localities have stockpiled basic necessities and arranged ways to transport them. In HCM City and Binh Duong province where traditional markets and shops have had to close due to the pandemic, inventories have tripled. Many localities have set up some shopping stalls to prevent any disruption of goods supply.

Le Viet Nga, Deputy Director of the Domestic Market Department of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, said, 'We have worked out plans to stabilize the market and have stockpiled sufficient supplies of goods to be prepared for any eventuality. HCM City and Binh Duong province have introduced creative solutions like setting mobile shopping stalls and promoting online sales. Localities have also enhanced mutual support. Many distribution networks have mobilized to support HCM City. These actions are ensuring a steady supply of goods during the pandemic.'

The Ministry of Industry and Trade said that major market chains, inventories have increased 150% 500%. Commodities are diverse and prices are stable. Local administrations and businesses have prepared scenarios to cope with the worst possible epidemic situations. So far, no price hikes have been reported and sales of agricultural products is steady.

HCM City’s Department of Industry and Trade has worked with 22 southern provinces to make market forecasts and ensure transportation and delivery of goods between localities.