Hanoi’s leading businesses are seeking to boost trade promotion and penetrate the Norwegian market following a recent fact-finding tour of the European nation, a local newspaper reported on February 13.

According to the online English-language Hanoitimes, a roundtable exchange was held in Oslo on February 10, attracting nearly 30 Norwegian businesses, including famous brands such as Adda Byggkjemi AS, Norwegian Custums, Comet Consular Services, AEGLE Global Sales & Agents-OSL, IKEA AS, Kongsberg Maritme, Adne Espeland A/S, and Jets Vacuum AS.

Eleven businesses of Hanoi said they hope to explore market potential in Norway and other North European countries to seek partnership and expand market share.

Hanoi Trade Promotion Centre Director Nguyen Thi Mai Anh shared her experience in trade promotion, and asked Norway to introduce partners in fashion. The centre has developed ties with the Lund fashion design centre and handicraft design centre of Sweden.

Pham Xuan Cuong, director of a handicrafts company, said it’s time to diversify products and expand market.

Thomas Angell, Virke Trade Director, discussed relations between the Oslo Chamber of Commerce (CoC) and Enterprise Federation of Norway (Virke) in improving Norway’s businesses’ strength, establishing a business culture, maintaining business ethics, and promoting cooperation among businesses.

Cathrine G. Jahnsen, Managing Director of the International Trade Cooperation Program of Virke, introduced her country’s geographic and socio-economic conditions and achievements in health care, tourism, services, oil and gas, power, and salmon exports, as well as requirements in labour safety and brand development.

Arne Sundt-Bjerck, a representative of ASB Consult, and Maria Cristina Latini, a representative of FK Norway, stressed the need to provide counseling services in the areas of business administration and fashion training, and handicraft production in vocational schools.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Norway Le Thi Tuyet Mai gave an overview of Vietnam’s economic achievements, highlighting the country’s role in ASEAN bloc and its international integration, and proposed future business initiatives.-VNA