Scene of the Forum

Attending the Forum were Comrade Nguyen Thi Phu Ha, Vice Chairwoman of the National Assembly's Committee for Economic and Financial Affairs and Mr. To Hoai Nam, Permanent Vice Chairman and Secretary General of Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises. Attending on behalf of Thai Nguyen Province were Comrade Tran Van Hau, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee; leaders of provincial departments, boards and sectors; and approximately 500 delegates who were leaders of business associations, representatives of member businesses and experts.

Permanent Vice Chairman and Secretary General of Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises To Hoai Nam delivers remarks at the Forum

Delivering the opening remarks, Mr. To Hoai Nam, Permanent Vice Chairman and Secretary General of Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, emphasized that after 15 editions, the 16th Forum was not only an opportunity to look back on the journey so far but also a platform for new connections within the business community in an era of green and digital development and international integration. As SMEs face the need to strengthen regional linkages, expand markets, improve competitiveness and proactively pursue international integration, the Forum provides a venue for associations to share experience, businesses to seek partners and concrete cooperation opportunities to take shape.

Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee Tran Van Hau delivers remarks at the Forum

Comrade Tran Van Hau, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, affirmed that Thai Nguyen's socio-economic development achievements in recent years have benefited from the active engagement and important contributions of the business and entrepreneurial community, including SMEs. The Forum is an opportunity for the province to affirm its pioneering role in supporting businesses; strengthen connectivity; promote digital transformation and sustainable development; and expand cooperation with the business community within and outside the province. He requested that the business and entrepreneurial community proactively adopt new business mindsets and approaches, step up the application of science and technology, advance digital and green transformation and improve governance capacity. The Provincial SME Association should continue to serve as a bridge between businesses and the authorities, promptly compile and report difficulties, obstacles and policy recommendations and renew the content and methods of its operations toward greater practicality and effectiveness. Authorities at all levels and sectors across the province should continue to improve the investment and business environment, advance administrative reform, reduce procedures, time and compliance costs, strengthen dialogue, remove difficulties and create favorable conditions for business development.

Delegates speaking at the Forum

Under the theme “Trade connectivity - Expanding global reach”, the discussion sessions focused on policies supporting SMEs, the business environment and solutions to promote linkages and expand markets. The Forum also featured an exhibition area with approximately 100 booths showcasing products and goods offered by businesses, networking and trade connection activities and a gala program.

Delegates performing the launch ceremony for the TASME Trade and Investment Promotion application

One of the Forum's highlights was the launch of the TASME Trade and Investment Promotion application, designed to help businesses connect, access information and expand markets.

Leaders of the Provincial SME Association and Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises presenting a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation

At the Forum, Thai Nguyen Provincial Association of Small and Medium Enterprises also signed 11 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with international agencies and organizations, state agencies, media organizations, banks, businesses and partners in the fields of international cooperation, trade promotion, financial and credit assistance and support for member businesses.

Leaders of the Provincial SME Association presenting the rotating flag to Phu Tho Province Entrepreneurs Association

On this occasion, the Resolution of the 16th Business Cooperation, Connectivity and Development Forum was adopted, expressing a commitment to strengthen linkages and cooperation among member associations of Vietnam Association of Small and Medium Enterprises. Thai Nguyen Provincial Association of Small and Medium Enterprises also presented the rotating flag to Phu Tho Province Entrepreneurs Association.