A Vietnam-Laos trade fair will be held in Vientiane , Laos , from Oct. 7-11 as part of Vietnam ’s national trade promotion programme for 2009, the Trade Promotions Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade has announced.

The event aims to advertise Vietnamese trademarks and businesses, increase the export of made-in-Vietnam products and develop export markets in Laos and the northeastern region of Thailand . It will also help to develop Vietnam ’s investment projects in Laos .

With space for around 200 businesses to display their goods and products in 300 stands, including half for Vietnam, the fair is expected to attract businesses from all economic sectors, especially processed foods, consumer goods, agro-forestry-fisheries, wood, handicrafts, medical and pharmaceutical and tourism products.

It is also expected to attract businesses that have the capacity to export and produce products that are suitable for the Laotian market.

According to the department, participants will enjoy financial assistance from the State for their stands at the fair, including 70 percent of the costs for advertising through the media./.