The 23rd Vietnam International Trade Exhibition (Vietnam Expo 2013) kicked off here on Wednesday, aiming to provide a good venue for both domestic and foreign trade promotion, said organizers.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the expo attracted businesses from 17 countries and territories including China, Cambodia, Cuba, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Russia and Belarus, and Vietnam.

More than 400 goods stalls displayed various kinds of commodities, including industrial and agricultural equipment and machines, construction materials, interior and exterior decoration items, electrical and electronic products, information technology (IT) products, garments and textiles, foodstuff and beverages, household utensils and cosmetics.

On the sidelines of the expo, trade promotion events will be held to update participants with information of the latest products and technologies, as well as successful lessons on export activities.

The expo will open until April 13.