Hanoi will be the venue for craftsmen from traditional trade villages to showcase and trade their products from November 17 to 21, 2005, according to an official from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Bach Quoc Khang, Director of the Farm Produce Processing and Salt Making Department, told a press briefing in Hanoi on September 22 that the aim of the fair is to promote the development of handicraft villages, create more jobs for rural labourers, step up economic restructuring in rural areas, intensify the fight against hunger and poverty, and bring the national identity into full play.

Coinciding with the fair will be a contest of handicraft products and ceremonies to honour artisans.