Chinese Deputy Premier Ma Kai and leaders of Southeast and South Asian countries also attended the event.
Speaking at the expo, Deputy PM Ninh said that the Kunming fair has become one of the most attractive fairs in China for Vietnamese businesses.
Combining the China-South Asia Expo and the China Import & Export Fair helps tighten economic and trade co-operation between China and other regional nations, he said.
It is also a chance for Vietnamese businesses to boost co-operation with their peers in China and South Asian countries, Deputy PM Ninh added.
The Vietnamese leader pointed out that recent Vietnam-China economic ties have grown steadily. China remains Vietnam’s largest trade partner with 2012 import-export turnover reaching US$41.1 billion, a year-on-year increase of 15.2%. Two-way trade between Yunnan province and Vietnamese localities also exceeded US$1 billion last year.
The five-day event has drawn 1,200 businesses from 43 countries and territories. Vietnam is displaying handicrafts, food, beverages and footwear in more than 180 booths at the fair, which is the greatest number of displays from any participating ASEAN country.
VNA
