On the afternoon of July 17 in Vientiane, the capitals of Vietnam and Laos came together in a vibrant display of economic cooperation with the opening ceremony of the VIETLAO EXPO 2025, co-organized by the Ministries of Industry and Trade of both nations.

The event drew the participation of senior officials from the two ministries, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyễn Minh Tâm, representatives from numerous Vietnamese and Lao enterprises, as well as a large crowd of Lao citizens and members of the Vietnamese community living in Laos.

A Longstanding Platform for Comprehensive Cooperation

In his opening remarks, Lao Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaythong Kommasith highlighted that this year marks the 15th edition of the trade fair—an event that has grown into a nationally recognized exhibition platform. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in advancing the comprehensive cooperation between the governments and peoples of Laos and Vietnam.

According to Minister Malaythong, the trade fair has not only fostered the growth of bilateral trade, investment, and tourism but has also contributed meaningfully to the socio-economic development of both countries. He expressed appreciation for the active participation and commitment of Vietnamese and Lao businesses this year, as seen in the impressive scale of exhibition booths and the diversity of products on display.

Confident in the fair’s role as a catalyst for growth, the minister voiced his belief that it would further promote bilateral trade and help realize the cooperative goals set by the leaders of the two nations.

Bilateral Trade Reaches New Heights

Minister Malaythong also shared promising economic figures: in 2024, the total two-way trade between Laos and Vietnam reached USD 2.25 billion, marking a remarkable 38.2% increase compared to the previous year. Even more impressively, in the first five months of 2025 alone, bilateral trade volume hit USD 1.6 billion—representing a 100.4% surge over the same period in 2024.

This upward momentum reflects the strengthening economic integration between the two neighbors and underscores the importance of platforms like the Vietnam–Laos Trade Fair in sustaining that trajectory.

A Showcase of Diverse Industries and Regional Strengths

Spanning from July 17 to 21, this year’s fair features approximately 250 booths, including 120 from nearly 80 Vietnamese enterprises representing a broad spectrum of industries. From pharmaceuticals and medical equipment to agriculture, forestry, seafood, processed foods, fashion and textiles, handicrafts, interior furnishings, and consumer goods, the variety of products on display is a testament to the dynamic commercial ties between the two countries.

The quality, design, and diversity of the goods cater to the needs of both Vietnamese and Lao consumers, while also opening avenues for cross-border market expansion.

Voices from the Fair

For many participants, the trade fair is more than just a business event—it is an opportunity to build long-term relationships.

• Pham Thi Hong, Deputy Director of Tiên Sa Bird’s Nest Company from Da Nang, shared that this is the third time her company has participated in the exhibition in Laos. Her goal is to bring Vietnamese bird’s nest products closer to Lao consumers and the international community in Vientiane.
• Southakon Sonvisay, representing a business from Huaphanh province in northern Laos, attended for the fifth time. His company aims to promote “Cheo Boong,” a famous Lao dipping sauce, to the Vietnamese community, Lao customers, and international visitors alike.
• Nguyen Hong Minh, Deputy General Director of Star Telecom (Unitel)—the largest mobile network operator in Laos with 100% nationwide coverage—stated that the fair provides an important platform to reaffirm the company’s role as a pioneer in telecommunications infrastructure development. He emphasized Unitel’s commitment to serving the people, businesses, and government of Laos, while expressing hope for continued support from both governments.

Expanding Horizons Beyond Laos

For the Vietnamese business delegation, the trade fair is not only a venue for brand promotion but also a springboard for broader regional ambitions. Many companies are seeking to expand their presence into northeastern Thailand, explore investment opportunities, foster technology transfer, and establish joint ventures and partnerships with Lao enterprises.

A Symbol of Lasting Friendship and Practical Cooperation

The 2025 Vietnam–Laos Trade Fair is more than a commercial showcase—it is a cornerstone event in the framework of bilateral economic cooperation. It helps enhance mutual understanding, strengthen solidarity, and deepen the “great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation” that the two Parties, States, and peoples have nurtured for decades.

As this relationship continues to evolve, the trade fair stands as a symbol of how economic collaboration can serve as a practical and effective bridge—linking not only markets but also hearts and aspirations—towards a future of shared prosperity for both Vietnam and Laos.