Market Frictions: Trade and Urbanization at the Vietnam-China Border

Market Frictions explores the tensions and frictions between global market forces, urban planning policies, and small-scale trading activities in Lào Cai, Vietnam, revealing how small-scale traders and market vendors experience the marketplace and negotiate current state policies and regulations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2019
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Based on extensive ethnographic research conducted over several years, Market Frictions delves into the intricate dynamics that arise from the interplay of global market forces, urban planning policies, and small-scale trading activities in the vibrant Vietnamese border city of Lào Cai. Through this comprehensive examination, it becomes evident how small-scale traders and market vendors navigate the marketplace, engage in introspection regarding their trading practices, and engage in negotiations with policymakers to shape the current state policies and regulations that govern their operations. What emerges is a captivating portrayal of how "traditional" Vietnamese marketplaces have undergone continuous transformation and adaptation to align with the ever-evolving political-economic landscape and societal ideals of the time.

Market Frictions, a groundbreaking study based on extensive ethnographic research spanning several years, uncovers the complex tensions and frictions that arise from the interplay of global market forces, urban planning policies, and small-scale trading activities in the bustling Vietnamese border city of Lào Cai. Through meticulous exploration, the book unveils the experiences of small-scale traders and market vendors as they navigate the marketplace, reflect upon their trading practices, and engage in crucial negotiations with policymakers to shape the prevailing state policies and regulations that govern their operations. What emerges is a captivating portrayal of how "traditional" Vietnamese marketplaces have undergone a remarkable transformation and adaptation, continuously adapting to the ever-evolving political-economic landscape and societal ideals of the time.

This comprehensive examination delves into the intricate dynamics that shape the marketplace in Lào Cai. It explores how global market forces, driven by economic globalization and international trade, exert a profound influence on the local economy and society. The book highlights the challenges faced by small-scale traders and market vendors, who operate within the framework of urban planning policies that often prioritize large-scale commercial development and infrastructure projects. It sheds light on the struggles they encounter, such as competition from larger businesses, regulatory hurdles, and the need to adapt to changing market demands.

Market Frictions also delves into the cultural and social dimensions of the marketplace. It examines how small-scale traders and market vendors contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the city's economy and society. It highlights their role in preserving traditional practices, promoting local products, and providing essential services to their communities. The book recognizes the significance of these marketplaces in maintaining cultural heritage, promoting social cohesion, and providing opportunities for marginalized groups to participate in the economic mainstream.

Furthermore, Market Frictions explores the negotiations and adaptations that small-scale traders and market vendors undertake to navigate the complex web of policies and regulations. It sheds light on their strategies for survival, resilience, and innovation in the face of adversity. The book highlights the importance of collective action, advocacy, and collaboration among small-scale traders and market vendors, as well as their engagement with policymakers to advocate for policies that support their livelihoods and promote sustainable development.

In conclusion, Market Frictions offers a profound and insightful examination of the complex interplay between global market forces, urban planning policies, and small-scale trading activities in Lào Cai. Through its comprehensive analysis, the book provides valuable insights into the experiences of small-scale traders and market vendors, shedding light on their challenges, adaptations, and contributions to the local economy and society. It underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of these marginalized groups, as well as the need for policies that promote inclusive and sustainable development in cities across the globe.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 162 x 237 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789202441