Linh Trang
Located on Huynh Thuc Khang street, about 20km from Phan Thiet city center, this bustling market attracts tourists year-round, especially during the vibrant summer season from June to August.
According to local guide Mr. Van Hung, the best time to visit is early morning, between 5:30 to 7:00 am, when fishing boats return laden with fresh catches. Fishermen swiftly transfer seafood to waiting traders, who then sort and price them into tubs based on size and type, skipping traditional scales.
The market's unconventional pricing system means visitors can purchase a bucket of assorted fresh seafood, including snails, crabs, and squid eggs, for a uniform price, such as 150,000 VND. Lobsters, a prized delicacy, are also sold by the bucket, ranging from 400,000 VND to 1 million VND, containing 3 to 5 lobsters each.
"While some vendors offer seafood by weight for premium items like fragrant snails and large lobsters, the bucket pricing remains a popular and straightforward method," explains Ms. Tran Thi Hong, a local resident, emphasizing the community's commitment to fair trading practices.
"Fishermen estimate portions honestly, ensuring customers receive quality seafood," Ms. Hong adds, as she carefully selects shrimp and fish for purchase.
Despite its simplicity, concerns over fair practices have arisen, prompting local authorities to install weighing stations and conduct surprise inspections to uphold market integrity. Tourists are advised to bring a small bottle of water to verify scales and ensure accurate measurements during transactions.
Compared to other markets, seafood at Mui Ne Fish Market is widely regarded as affordable, reflecting the region's sincerity and hospitality. However, the influx of frozen seafood and occasional reports of dishonest practices have prompted vigilant oversight from authorities.
The Mui Ne Ward People's Committee has taken proactive measures, requiring vendors to sign pledges of honesty and quality assurance. Violators face fines and potential exclusion from selling at the fishing village wharf, underscoring the community's dedication to maintaining its reputation as a reliable seafood destination.