Vietnam-Japan Exchange Program 2026 opens in Can Tho

On Friday evening, the Can Tho People's Committee and the Consulate General of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City opened the 2026 Vietnam-Japan Cultural and Trade Exchange Program at Luu Huu Phuoc Park.

The free event runs from September 11 to 13, offering residents and visitors cultural, arts and food experiences through about 100 booths from businesses and organizations in both countries, including around 40 from Japan.

The booths showcase products and services while creating business connections across key sectors, including agricultural products, food, consumer goods, OCOP products, healthcare, tourism, education and machinery.

Visitors can also explore cultural and culinary activities, including wagashi making, traditional Southern Vietnamese cake making, cosplay competitions, martial arts demonstrations and live performances by artists from Vietnam and Japan.

As part of the event, Can Tho leaders also met with Japanese partners at the Sheraton Can Tho Hotel on Friday afternoon to promote the city's potential and investment environment and explore cooperation opportunities.

On Saturday morning, about 1,000 people are expected to join a charity walk in traditional Vietnamese and Japanese attire at Luu Huu Phuoc Park to raise funds for disadvantaged children in the city while promoting the cultures of both countries.

Launched in 2015 and held every two years, the Vietnam-Japan Cultural and Trade Exchange Program has become an important diplomatic bridge, strengthening Can Tho's role as a hub for connecting Japanese partners with the Mekong Delta.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Can Tho People's Committee Chairman Truong Canh Tuyen said Vietnam and Japan have continued to strengthen their friendship and expand cooperation across various fields since establishing diplomatic ties in 1973.

Japan is one of Can Tho's key partners. 

The city has signed and implemented cooperation agreements with Hyogo Prefecture, Okayama, Fukuoka and Nasushiobara, while maintaining ties among government agencies, organizations, businesses, educational institutions and friendship associations on both sides.