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The “Chợ Việt” market, or Vietnamese Market in Berlin, is one of the city’s largest and most bustling marketplaces, with special significance for the Vietnamese community and other Asian residents. Known for its unique cultural atmosphere and distinctive products, this market holds a cherished place in Berlin’s heart. However, its charm extends beyond its Vietnamese roots, thanks to the vibrant cultural diversity brought in by immigrants from countries like Afghanistan.
Afghan Entrepreneurs in the Vietnamese Market
Afghan merchants have established a variety of small businesses within the market, drawing on their skills and experience in retail and trade. Many of these businesses specialize in custom drapery and traditional Afghan goods such as handmade curtains, clothing with Afghan cultural motifs, and carpets, each a symbol of Afghan artistry and culture. Created with the detailed craftsmanship for which Afghan and Iranian artisans are known, these products have garnered attention not only in Berlin but across other parts of Europe.
In addition to their craft goods, Afghan-owned restaurants in the market offer traditional dishes like Kabuli Palaw, Lamb Kebabs, Mantu (Dumplings), Bolani (Stuffed Flatbread), and other beloved Afghan and Iranian specialties. With their authentic flavors, these restaurants create a warm, welcoming space where patrons can savor Afghan and Iranian culinary traditions.
Decorative items are another area of Afghan commerce in the market. Many of the decor pieces used to design restaurants and commercial spaces in Berlin are imported from Afghanistan and Iran, showcasing eastern artistic and architectural styles that bring an elegant touch of cultural heritage to Berlin’s business settings.
Specialty Foods and Groceries
Afghan traders also bring a rich assortment of dried fruits and spices to the market, products abundant in Afghanistan. These food items form an important part of Afghan commerce and reflect the cultural essence of Afghan people, adding variety to the marketplace’s grocery offerings.
Afghan Business Experiences in Berlin
A significant number of Afghan merchants at the “Chợ Việt” market have prior experience in retail and business from their time in Afghanistan. Leveraging their trade skills and established networks, they have achieved considerable success in Berlin’s competitive market. Other Afghans, who pursued higher education in Afghanistan, have now transitioned into business and retail in Berlin, often completing specialized business training in Germany to enhance their skills.
Many of these entrepreneurs started their businesses in Berlin within the last five years, noting a major difference from Afghanistan in the taxation system. Unlike the lighter taxes in Afghanistan, Berlin’s tax system is much more structured. Nonetheless, Afghan merchants appreciate the organized system of buying and selling in Berlin, which simplifies and clarifies the commercial process.
Conclusion
Berlin’s “Chợ Việt” market serves as a dynamic commercial and cultural hub, providing a welcoming platform for Afghan businesses. The presence of Afghan entrepreneurs not only introduces Afghan art and culture to Berlin but also enriches the diversity and vibrancy of the market.
These small businesses cater not only to the Vietnamese community but to other immigrant communities as well, acting as a bridge between cultures. Overall, this market beautifully represents the exchange of culture and commerce between nations, where people of different backgrounds interact and collaborate in a peaceful, trade-focused environment.
