The 25th Vietnam Expo 2015 kicked off on April 15 in Hanoi as witnessed by Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai and representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Event participants include more than 600 exhibitors from over 28 countries and territories worldwide showcasing 720 booths, 312 of which from local firms including Hanoi Trade Corporation (Hapro) and the Vietnam Electrical Equipment Joint Stock Corporation (GELEX).

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Do Thang Hai said the event aims to create opportunities for businesses to partner with both domestic and international enterprises to improve export growth and attract foreign investment.

Themed “Cooperation towards the ASEAN Economic Community”, the event contributes to the export growth of domestic businesses into markets in the region and the world, according to Bui Huy Son, Director of the Ministry’s Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETTRADE).

The Vietnam Expo 2015 presents practical opportunities for Vietnamese businesses to fully tap the potential of free trade agreements (FTA) to be signed this year, Son said.

It also serves as a bridge to connect producers with investors, boosting trade exchange and accelerating contract signings and export, Son added.

The event, co-hosted by the VIETTRADE, Vinexad Advertising Joint Stock Company and Informa Exhibitions, will run through April 18.-VNA