Imported pork not popular with Vietnamese despite lower prices

Imported pork are sold at prices far lower than domestic pork, however Vietnamese still prefer the latter for consumption.
Due to the damaging effects of African Swine Fever (ASF), Vietnamese authorities has reduced its most-favored nation (MFN) tax rate for imported pork. With effect from 10 July, it was cut from 15% to 10% for frozen pork muscle cut; while chilled pork muscle cut dropped from 25% to 22%.
On the other hand, supply for domestic pork has dropped by 13% creating a surge in prices. As a result, the decision on reducing import tariffs was designed to ensure price stability.
According to statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam imported 67,638 tonnes of pork in the first 5 months of the year, an increase of 298% from the previous year, mosty from Canada, Germany, Brazil, Poland, US, Spain and Russia.
Imported pork, however is hard to find at supermarket shelves and retail stores. Many of them end up to be supplied directly to industrial kitchens.
Nevertheless, several supermarkets in Hanoi and northern provinces have launched programs to promote consumption of imported pork. For example, Big C held the ‘Imported Pork Week’ promotion offering deep discounts of up to 34% for dishes made with imported pork.
Vietnamese consumers are not used to the taste of imported, frozen pork with most still preferring fresh meat. Many consumers also voice concern over the freshness of imported pork. As a result, many supermarkets and retailers dare not stock on imported pork.