Vietnamese and Algerian businesses gathered together at the Vietnam-Algeria Business Forum in Hanoi on October 17 to discuss cooperative opportunities and seek information on trade and investment incentives in the two countries as well as priority areas and potential projects.

The Forum was co-chaired by Minister of Construction Nguyen Thanh Nghi and Algerian Minister of Industry and Pharmaceutical Production Ali Aoun.

Algeria is an important partner of Vietnam in Africa and its fourth-largest export market on the continent, according to Mr. Nghi.

A representative from the Ministry of Industry and Trade said that in order to create favorable conditions for domestic and foreign investors, Vietnam has reformed administrative procedures and simplified investment and business conditions. The government has issued policies to attract foreign investment in promoting green growth and sustainable imports and exports and has helped businesses overcome barriers.

Mr. Ahmed Berrich from the Algerian Investment Promotion Agency said the country is prioritizing investment in stone mining, agro-fisheries, pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, tourism, construction, and information technology and communications.