HCM CITY — A wide range of Vietnamese products, including packaged and processed foods and agricultural items, are on display at the “Business Matching Week and Introduction of Vietnamese Products at Central Retail Vietnam 2025”, being held at the GO! Nguyễn Thị Thập supermarket in HCM City from July 4 to 7.

This is the second consecutive year the Investment and Trade Promotion Centre of HCM City (ITPC) has partnered with Central Retail Vietnam, a member of Thailand’s Central Group, to organise the event. The programme aims to support Vietnamese businesses, particularly small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and innovative startups, in promoting their products and accessing modern retail channels.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Cao Thị Phi Vân, deputy director of ITPC, said Central Retail Vietnam has been a vital and consistent partner in trade promotion efforts. Together, they have launched numerous impactful initiatives, including Vietnamese Goods Week in Thailand and seminars introducing Thai market regulations and distribution systems, helping Vietnamese businesses better prepare for international expansion.

She noted that all products seeking to participate in the programme must meet Central Retail’s stringent quality standards, with a focus on safety, innovation, and showcasing regional or traditional characteristics.

Nearly 120 businesses submitted applications, and 40 were selected to showcase a diverse range of products such as tea, coffee, spices, confectionery, rice, fruits, vegetables and organic goods.

The programme allows Vietnamese businesses to introduce their products and brands to both domestic and international consumers through Central Retail’s network. It also offers opportunities to receive feedback on product quality, gain insights into consumer trends, and work with sourcing executives to enhance product quality and competitiveness for potential exports to Thailand and other international markets.

Paul Lê, vice president of Central Retail Vietnam, said Vietnamese products account for 95 per cent of the goods sold at its retail outlets. The group is also expanding its supermarket network to facilitate the distribution of more agricultural products from Vietnamese farmers and cooperatives.

In addition to meeting growing demand in the domestic market of 100 million people, Central Retail is working to bring Vietnamese goods to international markets, including Thailand, Europe, the US and Japan, he added.

As part of the programme, a business matching programme was also held on July 4, attracting around 150 Vietnamese businesses seeking to enter Central Retail’s supply chain. — VNS