The much anticipated World Cup 2018, which is due to begin on June 14, is fuelling demand for tours to Russia in Ho Chi Minh City , along with sales of TV sets and related goods.

World Cup goods on sale at an e-commerce website (Photo: quatangtructuyen.com)

Local travel agencies said the number of people booking tours to Russia this summer has surged by 50% – 60% compared to last year.

The prices of such tours, which last between 8 and 12 days, are between VND70 and VND80 million (US$3,090 – US$3,532), not including ticket fees to World Cup games.

The agencies also noted that service charges in Russia are estimated to increase by 30% – 35% from the normal prices.

Football fans are also flocking to shopping centres to make use of various World Cup promotional campaigns, with televisions being the most-wanted item. Other household goods like electric fans, air conditioners, rice cookers, and microwave ovens were reported to be sold at half prices under various discount programmes.

At many stores on the streets, stuffed toys, clothes, and caps with the World Cup 2018’s official mascot of Zabivaka are selling well with prices ranging between VND40,000 and VND50,000 (US$1.77 – US$2.21).

On June 8, the Vietnam Television (VTV) announced it has earned the right to broadcast live all 64 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2018 in the country.

The FIFA World Cup 2018 will take place in 12 stadiums in Russia from June 14 to July 15.

VNA