In this guide
This guide is for the international business traveller who is considering Can Tho as a destination for a trade show or exhibition. If you need to compare events by industry, exhibitor scale, and timing—and want practical advice on arrival, etiquette, language, and payments—you will find it here.
Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta, hosts a range of specialised fairs. The ten events listed below cover sectors from agriculture to renewable energy. For each, we provide the supplied dates, exhibitor counts, and notable companies, so you can assess which ones align with your objectives. Note that the dates come from event records and have not been independently verified; treat them as planning references rather than confirmed schedules.
Our aim is to help you make informed decisions. We compare the events, offer guidance on exhibiting versus visiting, and outline general considerations for freight, set-up, and downtime. Use this as a starting point for your own due diligence.
Trade Shows in Can Tho: The 10 Events to Consider
- Can Tho International Trade Fair — Largest general trade fair with 500 exhibitors
As the most extensive event in the list, this fair brings together 500 exhibitors from diverse sectors. The presence of major Vietnamese conglomerates like Viettel, Vinamilk, and Masan Group suggests a strong domestic focus. For international visitors, it offers a snapshot of Vietnam’s consumer and industrial landscape in one place. If you are new to the market and want to understand the competitive environment, this is a logical first stop.
Best for: Broad market scouting
- Can Tho Agricultural Fair — Leading agricultural fair with 400 exhibitors
Agriculture is central to the Mekong Delta economy, and this fair reflects that with 400 exhibitors. Companies like Syngenta, Bayer CropScience, and Cargill indicate a focus on crop protection, seeds, and commodities. For suppliers of agricultural inputs, machinery, or processing technology, this event provides access to key decision-makers. It also serves as a platform to learn about regional farming practices and challenges.
Best for: Agribusiness and input suppliers
- Vietnam Textile & Garment Industry Expo — Textile and garment expo with 350 exhibitors
Vietnam is a major textile exporter, and this expo gathers 350 exhibitors from the industry. Names like Vinatex and Garco 10 highlight the presence of state-owned and private garment manufacturers. International buyers looking to diversify their supply chain will find opportunities to meet potential partners. The event also showcases machinery and materials, making it relevant for those in production and design.
Best for: Sourcing and apparel technology
- Vietnam Foodexpo — Food and hospitality expo with 300 exhibitors
With 300 exhibitors, this expo focuses on food products and hospitality services. The participation of Nestle, Unilever, and Coca-Cola suggests a mix of local and international brands. For importers, distributors, and hotel chains, it offers a chance to explore new products and packaging solutions. The event also includes equipment and services for the hospitality sector, making it useful for restaurant and hotel operators.
Best for: Food importers and retailers
- Can Tho Healthcare Expo — Healthcare expo with 300 exhibitors
This healthcare expo brings together 300 exhibitors, including hospitals like Vinmec and Hoan My Medical, as well as pharmaceutical firms Roche and Pfizer. It covers medical devices, diagnostics, and healthcare services. For suppliers of medical technology or pharmaceuticals, the event provides a platform to engage with Vietnam’s growing healthcare sector. It also attracts professionals seeking updates on clinical practices and hospital management.
Best for: Medical equipment and pharma
- Can Tho Tech Expo — Technology expo with 250 exhibitors
Focused on technology, this expo features 250 exhibitors such as FPT Software, Viettel, and Samsung. It showcases software, hardware, and digital services. For international tech firms, it offers insight into Vietnam’s IT landscape and potential partnerships. The presence of global players like Intel and Microsoft indicates a mix of local and multinational innovation, relevant for those exploring digital transformation solutions.
Best for: IT solutions and electronics
- Can Tho Construction Expo — Construction expo with 220 exhibitors
This construction expo hosts 220 exhibitors, including major builders like Hoa Binh Construction and Coteccons. It covers building materials, equipment, and services. For suppliers of construction technology or materials, the event provides access to Vietnam’s infrastructure and real estate sectors. It also serves as a meeting point for contractors, architects, and project owners looking for new solutions.
Best for: Building materials and machinery
- Can Tho Electronics Fair — Electronics fair with 200 exhibitors
With 200 exhibitors, this fair focuses on electronics, from consumer goods to components. Brands like Sony, LG, and Panasonic are listed, suggesting a strong presence of established players. For international buyers and distributors, it offers a chance to see the latest products and negotiate deals. The event also highlights manufacturing capabilities in Vietnam, relevant for sourcing components or assembly services.
Best for: Consumer electronics and components
- Can Tho Logistics & Supply Chain Expo — Logistics expo with 180 exhibitors
This logistics and supply chain expo features 180 exhibitors, including global names like DHL, FedEx, and Maersk. It addresses the needs of the transport and warehousing sector. For companies involved in shipping, freight forwarding, or supply chain management, the event provides a platform to connect with service providers and learn about new logistics solutions. It is particularly relevant for those looking to optimize operations in the Mekong Delta.
Best for: Supply chain and freight services
- Can Tho Renewable Energy Expo — Renewable energy expo with 150 exhibitors
Focused on renewable energy, this expo has 150 exhibitors, including EVN, SolarBK, and Siemens. It covers solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies. For international companies in the energy sector, it offers a window into Vietnam’s renewable energy market and potential projects. The event is useful for equipment suppliers, project developers, and consultants looking to engage with local stakeholders.
Best for: Solar and clean energy
Quick comparison
| # | Event | Dates | Industry | Exhibitors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Can Tho International Trade Fair | April 2026 (unconfirmed) | General Trade | 500+ |
| 2 | Can Tho Agricultural Fair | March 2027 (unconfirmed) | Agriculture | 400+ |
| 3 | Vietnam Textile & Garment Industry Expo | October 2026 (unconfirmed) | Textiles & Apparel | 350+ |
| 4 | Vietnam Foodexpo | November 2026 (unconfirmed) | Food & Hospitality | 300+ |
| 5 | Can Tho Healthcare Expo | December 2026 (unconfirmed) | Healthcare | 300+ |
| 6 | Can Tho Tech Expo | September 2026 (unconfirmed) | Technology | 250+ |
| 7 | Can Tho Construction Expo | May 2026 (unconfirmed) | Construction | 220+ |
| 8 | Can Tho Electronics Fair | June 2027 (unconfirmed) | Electronics | 200+ |
| 9 | Can Tho Logistics & Supply Chain Expo | February 2027 (unconfirmed) | Logistics | 180+ |
| 10 | Can Tho Renewable Energy Expo | August 2026 (unconfirmed) | Energy | 150+ |
Event details reflect supplied records and have not been independently verified for this guide. Always confirm on the official event website before booking travel or stand space.
Exhibiting versus visiting: which makes sense
Deciding whether to exhibit or visit depends on your objectives and resources. Exhibiting requires a significant investment in booth space, travel, and materials, but it can raise your profile and generate leads. Visiting is less costly and allows you to research the market, meet contacts, and assess competition without the logistical burden.
Consider the event’s audience and your goals. If you aim to test market interest or find distributors, visiting may suffice. If you have a product ready for launch and want direct sales, exhibiting could be worthwhile. The table below outlines key factors.
| Factor | Exhibiting | Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | High (booth, materials, travel) | Lower (travel, accommodation) |
| Time commitment | Several days on-site | Flexible, can attend selectively |
| Lead generation | Direct engagement with visitors | Networking and observation |
| Market research | Limited, focused on your booth | Broad, can explore many exhibitors |
For first-timers, visiting is often a prudent step to understand the event’s scale and relevance before committing to exhibit.
Pre-show outreach for these audiences
Effective pre-show outreach can maximize your time at any event. Start by identifying the exhibitors and attendees relevant to your goals. Use the event’s directory or published exhibitor lists—such as those provided for these Can Tho shows—to shortlist targets. Then, reach out via email or LinkedIn to request meetings.
Craft a concise message that states your purpose and what you offer. Avoid generic pitches; reference the event and the other party’s business. For example, if attending the agricultural fair, mention your interest in sustainable farming solutions. Schedule meetings before travel to avoid missed connections.
Also, prepare a simple follow-up plan. Collect business cards and notes, and send thank-you emails within a week. This discipline helps turn initial contacts into lasting relationships.
Freight, set-up and venue rules in general terms
Shipping materials to Can Tho requires planning. International freight will likely arrive via Ho Chi Minh City or directly to Can Tho’s port; customs clearance can take time. Work with a freight forwarder experienced in Vietnam to handle documentation and regulations. For small items, carrying them as luggage may be simpler.
Venue rules vary, but common considerations include:
- Advance registration for large vehicles and deliveries.
- Restrictions on hanging signage or altering booth structures.
- Fire safety regulations for materials and electrical equipment.
- Waste disposal and recycling requirements.
Set-up days are typically provided, but confirm the schedule with the event organizer. Bring basic tools and spares, as on-site services may be limited. For electricity, check voltage and plug types (220V, types A and C are common in Vietnam).
Food and downtime between sessions
Can Tho is famous for its Mekong Delta cuisine, and you can use downtime to explore local flavors. The city offers a range of dishes, from fresh spring rolls to hearty hot pots. For business meals, many restaurants provide private rooms; reserving ahead is wise.
Between sessions, consider visiting the riverside area or a local café. Vietnamese coffee culture is strong, and cafés often provide a quiet space for meetings. Keep in mind that lunch is typically between 11:30 AM and 1:00 PM, and some businesses close for an hour.
For evening networking, moderate alcohol consumption is common, but excessive drinking is not expected. Dress codes for dining are generally smart casual. Always carry cash for smaller establishments, as card acceptance can be limited outside hotels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to attend a trade show in Can Tho?
The supplied events are spread throughout the year, with dates in 2026 and 2027. The dry season, from December to April, generally offers more pleasant weather for travel. However, specific event dates should be checked against your schedule. Since dates are not independently verified, confirm with organizers before making arrangements.
Do I need a visa to visit Can Tho for a trade show?
Vietnam's visa policy depends on your nationality. Many visitors require a visa, which can be obtained in advance or through an e-visa system. For business purposes, a business visa may be necessary. Consult the nearest Vietnamese embassy or consulate for current requirements and allow ample processing time.
What language is spoken at these events?
Vietnamese is the primary language, but English is often used in international business settings. Exhibitors at larger events may have English-speaking staff. Hiring a local interpreter can be beneficial for negotiations or detailed discussions. Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases is appreciated.
How can I pay for goods and services in Can Tho?
The local currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND). Cash is widely used, especially in markets and smaller shops. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger retailers. ATMs are available, but notify your bank of travel plans. For business transactions, bank transfers are common; establish terms in advance.
To make the most of your trip, start by comparing the ten events against your business objectives. Then, reach out to the organizers for the most current details on schedules, venue rules, and participation. With careful planning, Can Tho’s trade shows can provide valuable insights and connections in the Mekong Delta.