Calendar Culture in Vietnam
In the Year of the Dog (2006), the calendar market seems quiet in comparison with previous years. In fact the publication and distribution have been regulated half a year in advance. Ministry of Culture and Information and Ministry of Public Security have taken measures to prevent fake products in the interest of customers. Some 13.5 million calendar copies have been distributed.
According to Mr Do Quy Doan, Vice-Minister of Culture and Information, the calendar market this year is free from monopoly, rich in contents and attractive in appearance. However, shortcomings remain such as little reform in publication and the high prices in certain series and fake products. The prices are ranging from VND4,000-9,000 to VND110,000-220,000 meeting the demands of different households from rural to urban areas.
Mr Tran Tan Ngo, Director General of Vietnam Books Corporation (Savina) said that calendars will be distributed nation-wide on the occasion of the Tet (Lunar New Year). He also cautioned that at the high time of the sales, faked calendars could be smuggled into the market. Since the supply could meet only 90 per cent of the demand, 10 per cent left is open to imported and fake products.
To Vietnamese people, in addition to the normal use of the calendar, it also represents typical family tradition. They love the adages and teachings printed on the calendar. It is truly an integral part of the beautiful culture of Vietnam.
Kim Phuong
Vietnamese
