Dam Market in Nha Trang, the capital city of Khanh Hoa Province in south-central Vietnam, boasts distinctive circular architecture and carries historical traces, which has made it a sought-after destination in the famous coastal city. 

The market is considered a lotus in the midst of the beach city.

The unique market, designed by renowned architect Ngo Viet Thu, was constructed in 1970.

Work on the two apartment blocks of the market was completed in 1972.

The main building of the market was put into use in 1974. The structure has its roof arranged in the shape of letter V, making it look like a lotus.

The market is called Dam, or Lagoon in English, as it was built on an old lagoon.

The circular Dam Market has long been a place for shopping, and also more recently a favored tourist site as well as one of Nha Trang's symbols.

However, in 2014, the Khanh Hoa administration allowed developing a new market next to the Dam Market and planned to dismantle the old market out of its deterioration.

Yet, vendors refused to move to the new one and have repeatedly petitioned against the plan since 2015. They have proposed retaining the circular Dam Market.

The Nha Trang administration took coercive measures against vendors and shut down the market in April 2021, but the vendors and traders at the market have persisted with petitions.

They are still selling goods in the belt of the market.

As many as 180 of 255 vendors at the Dam Market have yet to approve registering a stall at the new market, denying relocation. 

They have sent a petition to the People’s Court of Khanh Hoa Province against power blackouts, fences erected in the belt of the market, and the closure of some of its doors.

The Standing Board of the Khanh Hoa Party Committee has asked the provincial People’s Committee to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dismantling of the circular Dam Market.

The circular Dam Market is a unique and cultural structure in Nha Trang, so it is necessary to garner feedback from experts and scientists before tearing down the building, according to a recent conclusion by the Standing Board.

All complaints and petitions from vendors must be addressed in line with the law, the boad said.

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