The relevant protocol of intent has been signed at the International Vietnam Expo 2012 Trade Fair in Hanoi. Belarus’ stand occupied 190sq.m, featuring exports from 50 enterprises within the Industry Ministry, the Agriculture and Food Ministry, the Education Ministry, the State Committee for Science and Technology and the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, as well as Belneftekhim and Belgospishcheprom concerns.
The Belarusian delegation held negotiations with the People’s Committee of Hanoi, the Industry and Trade Ministry, and the corporations of Hapro and HAPACO. Trade and economic co-operation between our countries was discussed and mutual interest in raising trade turnover was voiced — including the establishment of a joint trading house.
An agreement was finally reached to increase sales of Belarusian produce to the Vietnamese market, with local companies interested in direct supplies. In addition, Vietnam has suggested setting up joint ventures in Belarus to pack rice, coffee and other products, for onward sale within the Single Economic Space.
Vietnam is a traditional trading partner for Belarus in Southeast Asia and, over the last few years, our bilateral trade has increased considerably: exceeding $200m in 2011. The major imports from Vietnam are communication devices, office equipment, seafood, rice, fruits, tea and coffee. In turn, Belarus exports potash fertilisers, truck assembly sets, tractors and rock haulers.
Active inter-governmentaland inter-parliamentary dialogue is being conducted, contributing to the expansion of legislation for Belarusian-Vietnamese co-operation. Moreover, our two states have signed over 60 inter-governmental agreements.
