Market surveillance forces inspect a stall at Saigon Square in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: H.Y. / Tuoi Tre
Two stalls at one of the city’s most popular shopping centers were penalized for selling counterfeit products mimicking international luxury brands.
At kiosk 47T-49T, operated by Ngo Thi Hang Nga, officials discovered leather wallets branded as Hermes being sold for just VND150,000 (US$5.7) each.
Besides, handbags labeled with world-famous brands such as Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton were priced at VND280,000-380,000 ($10.7-14.6) each, much lower than prices listed on the official websites of these brands.
Similarly, at kiosk 3B+9D, run by Vo Thi Kieu Oanh, T-shirts featuring logos of well-known brands such as Lacoste, Boss, and Polo were on sale for VND100,000-VND150,000 ($3.8-5.7) each.
Market surveillance forces booked the vendors and temporarily confiscated nearly 400 counterfeit items from both stalls.
Over the last few weeks, market surveillance teams have maintained a strong presence at Saigon Square to monitor business activities.
As a result, many retailers have closed their stalls or attempted to move their goods out of their retail points to avoid inspection.
A representative from the agency stated that inspections of well-known locations involved in the trade of counterfeit, untraceable, or intellectual property-violating goods will continue as part of a long-term strategy.
Merchants were encouraged to shift to legally compliant goods to promote the domestic market, enhance the shopping experience, and build trust with both local consumers and international visitors.
