Ben Thanh Market shop ordered to shut for a week for overcharging tourist

The shopkeeper admitted to her wrongdoing and promised not to repeat it, Phap Luat newspaper reported.

The incident came to public notice after the tourist, Kiki, posted videos on social media saying the vendor had asked for VND700,000 (US$30) for three pairs of socks.

He said he was shocked and asked her twice "VND700,000?" The seller replied the socks "were beautiful and made from quality fabric."

He refused saying "the prices were too high."

When he tried to walk away she asked him how much he would pay for them.

He said VND60,000 but she refused at first. But when he left, she chased after him and agreed to sell them at VND60,000.

He smiled and refused to buy them.

The Ben Thanh Market management board said the incident has tarnished the image of HCMC as a safe and friendly tourism destination.

The market, situated in prime tourism location in District 1, has for long been attracting foreign visitors in droves.