Officially opening the fair, Deputy Minister Tran Quoc Khanh of the Ministry of Industry and Trade noted he hoped it would provide opportunities for local manufactures and traders to enter joint ventures with internationally known companies.

The event creates a platform for promoting international commerce for local businesses with a view to helping them become competitive in global marketplaces such as the Republic of Korea and Japan.

The 4-day fair hosts nearly 500 exhibitors from 23 countries, principally Asia, displaying handicraft goods, agricultural products, construction materials, medical products, metal and steel, leather goods, furniture and IT products, among others.

The event is open to both businesses and the public. Admission is free.