An international trade fair and economic forum for local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will be held for the first time in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city from March 23-25.

Mandalay Region Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) Vice Chair Daw Khin Lay Myint said this was the first time the SME fair would be held in the city as previous ones were held in Yangon and Nay Pyi Taw.

She said the event would feature SMEs in various businesses. “Deputy minister-level officials will take part in discussions. This is international trade fair so it will benefit all,” said Daw Khin Lay Myint. The fair would be held at the Mandalay Convention Centre.

The international trade fair will feature more than 300 booths. There will be gem and jewelry businesses that will demonstrate the different stages of producing the finished gem while food businesses will also be displaying their products.

Led by the regional UMFCCI, the event will be jointly organized by the regional government, Myanmar Investment Commission, Directorate of Investment and Company Administration and the Ministry of Commerce. Local and foreign business representatives will be giving talks on investments.

Daw Khin Lay Myint said representatives from China, Japan, India and Thailand as well as from European countries will also be attending.