Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha affirmed that Vietnam will continue to strengthen strategic connectivity within the framework of “Two Corridors, One Belt”. (Photo: VOV5)

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Ha affirmed that Vietnam has long been a reliable partner and an active contributor to the success of past expos.

To realize the shared vision of unity, cooperation, and shared development and to transform the China–South Asia–ASEAN region into a key engine of global economic growth, the Deputy Prime Minister proposed establishing an enabling, rules-based multilateral trade system that is open, fair, transparent, inclusive, and mutually beneficial. He also stressed the need to accelerate digital economic development, including the adoption of safe, convenient electronic payment and transaction systems built on consensus and harmonized frameworks.

At the opening session of the 9th China-South Asia Expo, 29th Kunming Expo. (Photo: VOV5)

Ha said the second priority is enhancing infrastructure and logistics connectivity, both regionally and globally, through multilayered, smart, green, and seamless networks. This includes not only physical infrastructure such as railways, roads, and seaports, but also digital and “soft” infrastructure—smart logistics systems and supply chains optimized with AI and IoT technologies.

Third, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the importance of strengthening trade ties, developing production and supply chains, promoting smart customs cooperation, and enhancing collaboration on intellectual property while reducing unnecessary trade barriers.

Regarding Vietnam’s role, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha said: “With its strategic geographic location as a gateway connecting ASEAN to the Chinese market, and with an open, stable, and dynamic economy, Vietnam is committed to further enhancing strategic connectivity under the 'Two Corridors, One Belt' initiative and other cooperation frameworks. We aim to maximize the benefits of free trade agreements such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the ASEAN–China Free Trade Area (ACFTA).”

This year, Vietnam is one of the countries with the largest business delegations participating in the event, featuring 130 booths from 70 enterprises.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuy, Director of Phuc Thinh Development Investment Trading Company Limited. (Photo: VOV5)

Nguyen Thi Thuy, Director of Phúc Thịnh Investment & Development Trading Co., Ltd., a company specializing in bird’s nest products, said: “I’m honored to participate in this event. While we’ve joined many trade fairs in China before, this is our first time in Kunming. China is a vast market that offers great opportunities for learning and connection. I hope this will help our products gain greater recognition and boost our company’s revenue. We’re also looking to obtain an official export code for China, which would allow our goods to circulate more smoothly.”

The 9th China–South Asia Expo and 29th Kunming Trade Fair has drawn 2,500 enterprises from 73 countries and territories.