Ho Chi Minh City has secured a place among the world's leading shopping destinations after being ranked 16th in Travel And Tour World's list of the Top 50 Shopping Destinations for 2026.
The ranking, published by Travel And Tour World (TTW), recognises destinations where shopping has evolved beyond consumer activity to become an integral part of the travel experience.
TTW said the list was compiled through comparative research and analysis of factors including fashion, luxury goods, traditional crafts, local culture, innovation, iconic shopping districts, traditional markets and visitor experiences.
London topped the ranking, followed by Milan, New York, Shanghai, Paris, Tokyo, Zurich, Sydney, Seoul and Vienna. Other cities in the top 15 included Dubai, Singapore, Berlin, Athens and Barcelona.
Ho Chi Minh City was ranked 16th, making it the only Vietnamese destination to appear among the leading global shopping hubs.
According to TTW, the city stands out for its blend of bustling traditional markets, modern shopping centres and independent retail outlets.
The publication noted that visitors can purchase a wide range of Vietnamese products, including silk, lacquerware, coffee, tailor-made clothing and handicrafts. Many of these experiences are centred around locations such as Ben Thanh Market and the city's growing network of creative districts.
TTW said the ranking reflects the increasing importance of shopping as a component of tourism rather than merely a consumer necessity.
Anup Kumar Keshan, founder and editor-in-chief of Travel And Tour World, said modern travellers are increasingly interested in the authenticity, origin and stories behind the products they purchase.
As a result, shopping has become a way for visitors to explore local culture, creativity, craftsmanship and everyday life.
The report highlighted the distinctive retail identities of cities across the ranking. London is known for its historic markets and fashion streets, Milan for luxury fashion and Italian craftsmanship, Tokyo for technology, cosmetics and pop culture, and Seoul for K-beauty products, fashion and lifestyle brands.
Against this backdrop, Ho Chi Minh City was recognised for combining contemporary commerce with traditional shopping culture. Its mix of markets, local stores, shopping malls and emerging retail concepts creates a diverse ecosystem that caters to both shoppers and cultural explorers.
The ranking also underscores the growing influence of Asian cities in global shopping tourism. Alongside Ho Chi Minh City, Shanghai ranked fourth, Tokyo sixth, Seoul ninth and Singapore 12th.
By placing 16th worldwide, Ho Chi Minh City has strengthened its position as a destination where shopping can form a meaningful part of the visitor experience, enhancing the appeal of the city to international travellers.
