Vietnamese enterprises showcased products in 120 booths at the Vietnam-Laos Trade Fair (VIETLAO EXPO 2023), the largest annual trade promotion event co-organized by the two countries’ ministries of industry and trade and held in the Lao capital Vientiane from July 29-31.

On display were various products, including pharmaceuticals and medical equipment, agro-forestry-fishery products, processed food, garments, handicrafts, interior and exterior décor items, plastics, and consumer products.

Business transactions and face-to-face and online business networking conferences were held on the sidelines of the expo.

The trade fair provides an opportunity for businesses from the two countries to boost trade, investment, and tourism cooperation.

Two-way trade between Vietnam and Laos reached $1.63 billion in 2022, an increase of 18.9 per cent year-on-year. The figure totaled $835 million in the first half of 2023, a year-on-year rise of 1.3 per cent.

The two countries target posting annual trade value of $2 billion in the future.