The Vietnam Food and Drink Exhibition (Vietfood and Drink 2006) will be held at the Ho Chi Minh City International Exhibition and Convention Centre from August 10 to 13.

The event provides an opportunity for Vietnamese food and beverage companies to network with their international counterparts and seek new markets for their products. It is also a good chance for Vietnam to introduce its rich culinary heritage to international visitors.

More than 200 companies, including 30 foreign food and beverage makers, are expected to participate in this year's event which will showcase processed foods, drinks, and fresh produce, and feature some of the country's top brands, including those awarded prizes at previous exhibitions.

The exhibition’s Organising Board will award gold medals to companies for products meeting quality, food safety and hygiene standards, as well as trophies for companies considered to have made significant contributions to the success of similar events.

The expo has been held biannually in Hanoi and HCM City since last year.