Over 40 Ho Chi Minh City firms interested in the Lao market sent representatives to a workshop held in Vientiane to boost local investment, trade and tourism.

Addressing the event on April 7, Secretary of the municipal People’s Committee Le Thanh Hai urged that the workshop should be a venue to explore information and business opportunities, thereby forming mutually-beneficial, long-term ventures.

In his speech, Lao Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad said Laos is surrounded by vibrant economies like China, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam and its government considers regional market connectivity a top priority.

Recently, the Lao government upgraded road and railway infrastructure and improved education and labour skills while developing 10 special economic zones, he said, adding that another two areas designed for the processing and mechanical industry are in the works.

The Lao representatives presented a full account of investment incentives, potentials and advantages of their country and several provinces in particular.

A sideline exhibition featuring Ho Chi Minh City’s socio-economic achievements, tourism potential, and a variety of consumer goods attracted crowds./.