People shop for pork at Big C supermarket in Ha Noi. — VNA/VNS Photo Phuong Anh

The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has requested provincial and municipal industry and trade departments support the launch of new points of sale to ensure an abundant supply of consumer goods amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The MoIT also urged departments to create favourable conditions for enterprises providing essential goods to continue operations while launching temporary points of sale, especially for people in isolated areas.

Earlier, Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh said the ministry would act to ensure supply of essential goods even in the worst-case scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said there will be no shortage of essential goods or disruptions in supply in any localities.

All contingency plans must be ready for every scenario to ensure the supply of goods even if the COVID-19 pandemic lasts six months or longer, he said. In case of emergency, national reserves will be used.

Inspections will be carried out with a focus on localities at higher risk of virus outbreaks to ensure products are of good quality and distribution is smooth. — VNS