(VOVworld) – The northernmost province of Ha Giang continues to mesmerize visitors not only for its imposing stone plateaus but also because of the unique market displays by the local ethnic groups. The cow market in Meo Vac district, which convenes every Sunday, showcases the unique cultural identity of the Mong, Dao and Lo lo ethnic groups.  

The market convenes from dawn every Sunday and the clanging of cowbells can be heard from afar. Trading often takes place quickly and smoothly. Vang Mi Dinh of Chung Pa A hamlet arrives at the market at 6AM. He said: “I’ve sold 3 of my 4 cows in 2 hours. There is not much bargaining. Each cow gives me a profit of 50 USD. I buy cows and then resell them.”

Vu Mi Po of Giang hamlet is checking every cow at the market very carefully. He said: “I want to buy a cow that looks good. I brought 800 USD with me today. I’ve already sold my cow for 1000 USD and want to buy a smaller one to raise. I offered to buy a cow for 700 USD but the owner refused.”

Vang Mi Dinh is a professional cow trader. He travels to different parts of Ha Giang and adjacent provinces to buy cows. When the cows are fattened, he sells them at the market. Dinh said that 80% of the market goers are cow traders and the rest are breeders.

Giang Seo Sinh is trying to sell his cow for a good price. Sinh said he doesn’t want to sell but he has to because his family needs the money: “I’m selling this cow for 700 USD but normally the price would be higher. We need money to buy fertilizer and to pay for our daily needs.”

Vu A Chu has taken a tour of the market, still, he likes Sinh’s cow most:“I prefer locally raised cows than ones from other places. They look stronger.’

The market is also a venue for people to meet friends and converse after hard days of work. Foreign tourists also find this place interesting.

Marco from Italy said: “The most important thing about this market is the selling of the animals: the cows, the goats and the chicken. Very interesting. In Italy, we don’t have this kind of market. You can’t buy cows or chicken on the street. This is very special, very traditional and I love it.”