Floating markets of Vietnam

With two deltas from both the northern Red River and the southern Mekong River, floating markets were an important aspect of greater aquaculture-based society consisting of floating communities that inhabited the riversides of Vietnam.^[1][2] Archaeologists have found evidence that extensive trading networks likely existed in Vietnam's river deltas from as far back as 4,500 years ago.^[2][3] As far back as the 7th century, the southern riverways of the Mekong Delta were seen as prime migratory opportunities for those farther north.^[4] Many of the communities consisted of cultural groups now associated with modern-day ethnic groups, such as Kinh, Chams, and Khmer.^[4] The intersections of major riverways become major points of commerce and led to the proliferation of on-ground and floating markets.^[4] Although economic growth and emerging technology over the 19th century provided alternative commercial avenues, floating markets remained a central meeting place into the 21st century as road infrastructure gradually developed in the Delta regions.^[5] There have been increased efforts to preserve the traditional appearances of some floating markets as a form of both eco-tourism and cultural tourism.^[6]

Due to Vietnam's frequent interaction with cultures and technologies from afar, a variety of vessels could be seen in Vietnam's floating markets. In current times, both modern boats, as well as traditional boats, are found, with wooden plank-keel boats being one of the more commonly used.^[7]