Alongside efforts to boost trade promotion and advertise local products, the province has increased inspections and handled hundreds of violations, contributing to a healthy business environment and protecting consumer rights.

For 2026, Điện Biên’s trade and service sector has set a growth target of 10.82%. To realize this goal, the Department of Industry and Trade has been closely monitoring market developments since the start of the year to build flexible regulation plans. Vũ Hồng Sơn, Director of the Department of Industry and Trade, noted that tracking supply and demand and creating response scenarios for peak periods not only stabilizes the market but also provides a foundation for long-term growth. Simultaneously, trade promotion activities continue to expand, helping businesses increase market access and integrating OCOP products, rural industrial goods, and key agricultural products more deeply into modern distribution channels.

Alongside stabilizing the domestic market, the province is intensifying trade promotion to expand product consumption. Participation in the inaugural First Spring Fair 2026 provided a platform for businesses and cooperatives to advertise their goods. Products such as rice, coffee, honey, and brocade have had opportunities to connect with partners outside the province, step-by-step building the Điện Biên brand in larger markets.

Import-export and border trade activities continue to maintain steady development, serving as a highlight in the overall trade sector. In the first quarter of 2026, the total import-export and border trade turnover was estimated at USD 41.18 million, an increase of 23.78% year-on-year. Specifically, export turnover reached approximately USD 25.56 million, while import turnover stood at USD 15.62 million. Notably, the successful official opening of the A Pa Chải Border Crossing for trade activities, combined with the export of the first 22-ton batch of coffee, has opened new avenues for businesses and border residents to create more growth room.

The growth momentum is clearly evidenced by the total retail sales and service revenue of over VND 8,623 billion in the first three months of this year, representing a 21.67% increase over the same period last year and achieving 27.51% of the annual plan. These figures reflect improved purchasing power and bolstered market confidence.

The growth of the trade sector is reflected not only in scale but also in the quality of development, as the market structure gradually shifts toward a more modern and professional direction. Distribution systems are expanding, and the connection between urban and rural areas is becoming increasingly tight. Businesses and cooperatives are proactively innovating their business methods, applying digital technology, and effectively exploiting online sales channels. This serves as an important driver for Điện Biên trade to maintain a steady growth pace.

With the rapid development of e-commerce, management in this field has been strengthened to ensure legal compliance and consumer protection. Raising the awareness of businesses and the public regarding online business helps limit risks and opens more effective distribution channels. Furthermore, the trading of petroleum and liquefied petroleum gas is strictly controlled to ensure a stable supply and prevent speculation or hoarding, thereby maintaining price levels and facilitating production and business.

According to reports from the provincial Market Management Department, from December 16, 2025, to March 15, 2026, functional forces inspected and supervised 542 establishments, discovering and handling 431 violations involving 474 individuals. Administrative actions were taken in 256 cases involving 260 individuals, contributing over VND 20.6 billion to the state budget. The fight against criminal law violations was also stepped up, with 175 cases discovered and 214 individuals arrested for smuggling, tax evasion, and trading in prohibited goods. These results protect consumers and create a fair competitive environment.

The trade growth in the first quarter of 2026 is the result of a resonance between market demand, effective policy management, and the efforts of the business community and residents. Beyond its direct contribution to economic growth, the trade sector plays a vital role in connecting production with consumption, promoting the circulation of goods, and creating jobs. With the current momentum and the implementation of synchronized, flexible solutions, Điện Biên trade is expected to maintain its positive trend, creating a solid foundation for a modern, transparent, and sustainable market.