Sea traders climb mountains: Connecting lowland and highland regions

In the highlands of Quang Ngai province, Vietnam, a unique bond flourishes between lowland traders and the H'rê ethnic community. For nearly fifty years, 71-year-old Dang Thi Nhung has traversed the rugged terrain, her simple home a testament to the deep trust and mutual respect she shares with the villagers.

Nhung's journey began with arduous treks, carrying baskets of salted fish and other goods to remote villages. She would trade these for mountain products, returning home late at night. The hardships of the rainy season, with slippery paths and worn-out rubber sandals, often led to falls. Yet, her dedication never wavered.

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The villagers are very good! They gave me land to build a house and to trade. Thanks to that, I could raise two children. Now I'm handing over the house built on that land of gratitude to my daughter-in-law for her business.

Over time, Nhung acquired a bicycle, then a motorbike, easing the burden of transport. The local community, recognizing her commitment, petitioned the government to grant her a plot of land. This "house of gratitude" became both her home and a hub for trade, allowing her to support her family and continue her business.

Now, Nhung's daughter-in-law, Nguyen Thi Thong, carries on the tradition. Thong, who married into the family over a decade ago, now manages the business from the very plot of land her mother-in-law received. She continues to travel down to the market to buy goods, bringing essential items like fish from the sea to the mountain dwellers, reinforcing the vital economic and social connections between Vietnam's diverse regions.

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I am very grateful to my mother-in-law for giving me the business. Many people here are pitiful, they live very honestly.