HoChi Minh City (VNS/VNA) — Demand of goods in Ho Chi MinhCity, ꦺthe country’s biggest, is increasing gradually before the Lunar NewYear holidays thanks to promotions and the greater diversity of𓄧 products thanlast year.

Though there is more than a month to go for the year'sbiggest festival, many retail chains have started offering discountsalready. Products such as cosmetics, cleaning products, personal care andbeauty products, and foods that can be stored for long without spoiling aresold at discounts now so that customers only need to buy fresh foods orready-to-eat dishes before the holidays. Other promotions such as offer of gifts, higher reward pointsthan normal and gift vouchers are also regularly rolled out. City authorities have urged businesses to ensure there isadequate supply and offer promotions for the festival while followingpandemic prevention measures. Consumers would tend to focus on basic items such as freshgoods, essential foods and typical items such as confectionery, beer, softdrinks, and wine for the occasion. Thecity has called on distributors and manufacturers to launch promotions andprioritise online sales and non-cash payments. It is holding the annual Promotion Fair from December 21 to 26 withmore than 450 booths showcasing consumer goods, farm produce and handicraftsand the city’s 50 percent limit on discounts scrapped. Participating businesses must ensure the origins and quality ofproducts. The promotions they offer include discounts, gifts and luckydraws./.