Vietnam: Hanoi event promotes regional specialties

Hanoi, November 11 (VNA) - The capital of Vietnam will host the first annual programme to promote regional specialities from November 28 to December 2. The large-scale event will gather specialities from 40 cities and provinces, including processed seafood, candy, tea and coffee, fresh fruits and spices, according to director of the Hanoi Trade Promotion Centre Nguyen Thi Mai Anh. Visitors can taste a variety of produce items renowned for their quality. Some scarce items will only be available in limited quantity. The Hanoi Department of Trade and Industry initiated the programme with the goal of expanding markets for these unique regional products. "In recent years, localities have made tireless efforts to promote their products but failed to do it thoroughly," Deputy Director of the Department Tran Thi Phuong Lan said. "Consequently, the specialities haven't caught on among consumers in other areas." A conference on enhancing value and developing trademarks will take place on November 29, as will an activity to connect enterprises in Hanoi and other cities and provinces. Thousands of visitors are expected to turn up at the Royal City Trade Centre in Thanh Xuan District to browse the 150 bamboo stalls, divided into geographic sections. For example, the Da Lat section will offer visitors a taste of Central Highlands culture and cuisine. Economic counsellors from foreign diplomatic delegations have been invited to join the event, many representing key markets around the world, Anh said. The event will also see the participation of representatives of foreign enterprises, restaurants and hotels, distributors, producers and processors.