Phu Quoc Night Market Closes After Tet Holiday

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Phu Quoc Night Market to Temporarily Halt Operations

Duong Dong Night Market, a bustling hub in Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc, is set to suspend operations after the Lunar New Year holiday. This decision comes as part of efforts to improve urban management and ensure smoother traffic flow in the area.

On January 9, local authorities confirmed that traders at Bach Dang Night Market, also known as Duong Dong, will be allowed to operate until February 28. This date corresponds to the 12th day of the first lunar month, marking the end of the Tet holiday period. The decision was made to support small traders who have already prepared goods for the upcoming Tet celebrations, which begin on February 17.

The market has long been a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a wide range of food, souvenirs, and entertainment. It features over 100 stalls and is considered one of the best places to experience local life on the island. Despite its popularity, the market has received mixed reviews, with many visitors rating it an average 3.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor. Most reviews mention reasonable pricing but suggest that the overall experience is only worth about 45 minutes.

Historical Background and Lease Agreement

In September 2015, the Phu Quoc District Department of Economy, now known as the Department of Economy, Infrastructure, and Urban Affairs of Phu Quoc, signed a 10-year lease contract with Ngoi Sao Bien Tourism Company. This agreement covered the operation of Bach Dang pedestrian street and the Phu Quoc night market. The contract expired on December 31, 2025.

The closure of the night market is part of a broader initiative to enhance urban order management and restore unobstructed space for traffic. While the market has played a significant role in the local economy, authorities believe that its temporary suspension will help improve the overall environment for residents and visitors alike.

Other Night Markets on Phu Quoc

In addition to Duong Dong Night Market, Phu Quoc is home to several other night markets. These include the Grand World Night Market in the northern part of the island, Sonasea Bai Truong, and Vuifest Night Market in Sunset Town. Each of these locations offers unique experiences, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Despite the closure of Duong Dong Night Market, the island remains a top tourist destination. In 2025, Phu Quoc welcomed 8.1 million visitors, including 1.8 million international arrivals. Authorities are optimistic about this year's numbers, expecting around 8.5 million visitors—a 5% increase compared to the previous year.

Impact on Local Businesses

The temporary closure of the night market has raised concerns among local traders, who rely heavily on the influx of tourists during the Tet holiday. However, the decision to allow operations to continue until February 28 provides some relief to those affected. This compromise ensures that small businesses can still benefit from the peak tourist season while allowing authorities to implement necessary changes.

As Phu Quoc continues to grow as a premier travel destination, the balance between preserving local culture and managing urban development will remain a key challenge. The closure of Duong Dong Night Market may signal a shift towards more structured and regulated tourism activities, ensuring sustainable growth for the island in the years to come.

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