Brian Jeffrey
Known for its traditional sticky rice craft, Phu Thuong village offers a variety of sticky rice types, with families starting work as early as 2 a.m. each day.
The adoption of electric cookers has improved efficiency, enabling the steaming of up to 50 kilograms of rice, surpassing traditional cooking practices.
Beginning at 4:30 a.m., vendors in Phu Thuong transport their goods to selling points, using motorbikes for short distances and cars for longer journeys.
Some households, like Truong Son’s, opt for cars to sell sticky rice, with dozens of families in the area relying on cars for their businesses.
Nguyen Thi Thanh Huong’s family invested in a 7-seater car valued at 700 million VND two years ago, continuing a three-generation tradition of selling sticky rice.
To ease travel challenges, Huong’s family secured a bank loan and used savings to purchase the car, allowing for safer and more efficient transportation.
Cong Manh Cuong and his family also start their day at 2 a.m., engaging in various tasks to prepare sticky rice for sale by 5 a.m., opting for cars due to safety concerns while commuting.
The decision to transition to car sales was prompted by the risks associated with motorbike travel, with safety being a top priority for vendors.
Cuong shared the story of his wife’s motorbike accident, leading them to purchase a car for peace of mind, enabling them to travel comfortably to their selling locations.
With a daily travel distance of about 50 kilometers, Cuong ensures his wife is dropped at her stall under the Dong Tru bridge before heading towards his selling spot.
As Bach Hai Yen sets up her stall by 6 a.m., loyal customers are already present, drawn to the chewy and fragrant Phu Thuong sticky rice.
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With prices ranging from 10,000-20,000 VND per serving, Yen efficiently serves customers, attracting regulars like Do My Thinh, who values the quality and taste of Phu Thuong sticky rice.
The use of cars by Phu Thuong vendors has allowed them to reach wider markets, with many young entrepreneurs joining the trade, earning a stable income from their endeavors.
Vendors aiming to expand beyond their village had to save for years and take loans to acquire cars for their businesses, a testament to their dedication and vision.
Chi Hieu
