The annual event aims to boost bilateral co-operation in economic development, investment, tourism and services between Lao Cai and the northwestern provinces of Viet Nam, as well as Yunnan and western provinces of China. — VNA/VNS Photo Tran Viet

HA NOI (Biz Hub) — Nearly 500 businesses are expected to participate in the 15th Viet Nam-China International Trade Fair to be held in Lao Cai city from November 12-17.

The annual event, organized under the banner of the National Trade Promotion Programme, aims to boost bilateral co-operation in economic development, investment, tourism and services between Lao Cai and the northwestern provinces of Viet Nam, as well as Yunnan and western provinces of China.

At yesterday's press conference in Ha Noi, Do Kim Lang, deputy head of the Ministry of Industry and Trade's Trade Promotion Agency, said he believed that the forthcoming event will be a good opportunity for enterprises to share market information, seek partners and expand their markets, benefiting Viet Nam-China trade relations.

The fair will host 800 booths, showcasing a wide range of products, such as agriculture, seafood, automotive, machine and equipment, electronics, handicrafts, clothing, furniture and tourism services, said Hoang Chi Hien, deputy director of the Lao Cai Department of Industry and Trade.

Also, two seminars will take place on the sidelines of the exhibition for businesspeople from both countries to meet and exchange co-operation opportunities with each other, he noted.

The previous fair, held in the Chinese district of Ha Khau, saw 19 contracts signed, worth US$440 million, between enterprises, dangcongsan.vn reports. —VNS