14TH NATIONAL CONGRESS OF THE COMMUNIST PARTY OF VIETNAM
Log in
Business

Big C Vietnam resumes purchasing softline products from local suppliers

The previous decision to stop purchasing products from local suppliers was owing to a change in the strategy of development of the soft-line concept with a shift towards products for higher customer segments.

Central Group Vietnam, the owner of retail chain Big C Vietnam, has promised to resume the purchase of soft-line products from 50 out of its 200 local suppliers, starting July 4, according to Do Thang Hai, deputy minister of Industry and Trade. 
 
Illustrative photo.
Illustrative photo.
The decision was made following the meeting between the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), Central Group Vietnam and the Vietnam Textile & Apparel Association on July 4, Hai said in a monthly meeting held by the MoIT on the same day. 

In the next two weeks, Central Group Vietnam would continue to expand its purchasing activities to an additional of 100 suppliers, while the remaining 50 are subject to further consideration as the product quality is not up to standards, Hai informed. 

On July 2, Central Group Vietnam released an announcement on the suspension of buying soft-line products from all soft-line suppliers in Vietnam, effective from July 2019.

According to Hai, Central Group’s decision was part of the group’s preparation for its project of restructuring soft-line department in Vietnam, which could last 15 days. 

As of present, Central Group has 4,000 suppliers, including 200 soft-line partners. 

The group had sent letters to its suppliers, explaining the decision was temporary and existing orders would still be carried out, Hai continued. 

Le Viet Nga, deputy director of the Domestic Market Department under the MoIT, said the first 50 suppliers subject to resumption of purchasing activities are the largest ones. 

Nga said Central Group did not complain about the quality of Vietnamese products, but the suspension of the ordering is owing to a change in the strategy of development of its softline concept with a shift towards products for higher customer segments. 

The decision, therefore, should be respected, but Vietnam's government agencies would continue to supervise the group’s compliance with Vietnamese laws, including the Competition Law and the Law on Protection of Consumers’ Rights, Nga added. 

Deputy Minister Hai said Vietnam welcomes foreign investors but stands firm on protecting the lawful rights of Vietnamese enterprises and customers. 

Central Group Vietnam is a member of Central Group, which has been present in Vietnam since July 2011. Its business activities in Vietnam range from electronics, sports, fashion, shopping centers and hotels to e-commerce and supermarkets.

The group made the headline in Vietnam following its acquisition of a chain of 33 supermarkets and hypermarkets owned by Big C for US$1.05 billion in April 2016. 

Last August, CEO of Central Group Vietnam Philippe Broianigo revealed a plan to invest an additional US$500 million in Vietnam’s retail market in the next five years, taking the total investment capital of Central Group in Vietnam since 2012 to US$2 billion. 
Reactions:
Share:
Trending
Most Viewed
Hanoi tipped as emerging rail industry hub

Hanoi tipped as emerging rail industry hub

The rail industry complex is expected to serve as the central pillar of a new era for the sector, marked by the emergence of high-speed rail and expanded urban rail networks.

Regional specialties drive strong sales at Spring Fair 2026

Regional specialties drive strong sales at Spring Fair 2026

Food and specialty booths at Spring Fair 2026 are drawing strong crowds and sales as Tet approaches, reflecting rising demand for Vietnamese regional products with clear origins and trusted quality.

Hanoi launches product showcase spaces linked to Spring Flower Fairs ahead of Tet

Hanoi launches product showcase spaces linked to Spring Flower Fairs ahead of Tet

The program ranks among the city’s key trade promotion activities, aiming to stimulate domestic consumption, stabilize the market.

Vietnam to tax crypto asset transfers at 0.1%

Vietnam to tax crypto asset transfers at 0.1%

This approach mirrors the current tax calculation applied to securities transactions.

Hanoi craft exhibition showcases Tet goods as shopping demand rises

Hanoi craft exhibition showcases Tet goods as shopping demand rises

Featuring 100 booths, the exhibition brings together artisans and businesses from Hanoi and neighboring provinces, presenting handicrafts, gifts, decorations and specialty foods, while promoting craft villages and stimulating consumption ahead of the 2026 New Year.

Vietnam establishes support body for International Financial Center Council

Vietnam establishes support body for International Financial Center Council

Beyond internal coordination, the support body undertakes international cooperation, information and communication activities.

Hanoi draws US$102 million in foreign direct investment during January

Hanoi draws US$102 million in foreign direct investment during January

Strong investor activity continued in the capital at the start of the year, as a mix of new projects, capital adjustments and share acquisitions helped reinforce Hanoi’s role in sustaining Vietnam’s positive foreign investment trend.

Vietnam pushes rural e-commerce expansion to narrow digital divide nationwide

Vietnam pushes rural e-commerce expansion to narrow digital divide nationwide

As Vietnam’s e-commerce market accelerates, attention is shifting toward how national policies and platform-led initiatives can help smaller localities overcome structural barriers, bringing digital trade opportunities to mountainous, border and rural communities.