(KPL) A Lao-Chinese trade fair market was held in Mengman Town, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, late last month. The trade fair is a celebrated hub of cross-border trade and cultural exchange, drawing significant attention from both locals and visitors.

A group of Lao and Chinese journalists visited the lively market as part of a three-day media programme aimed at fostering cultural ties between the communities residing along the Laos-China border.

This market, known as the "friendship market," is a significant meeting point for the Lao, Lao-Chinese, and Tai Lue people.

The market, held every Saturday, boasts a remarkable array of 450 to 500 shops with some offering a unique taste of local culture through their culinary delights.

Vendors specialize in an assortment of local foods, including flavorful grilled dishes, rich curries, and traditional signatures that showcase the diverse culinary heritage of the region. Visitors are often enchanted by the market's distinctive atmosphere, accentuated by the traditional house roofs attached to shops, creating a quaint and memorable shopping experience.

Beyond the culinary offerings, the market is a hub of cultural activities, featuring performances by local artists and occasional appearances by famous Lao and Chinese entertainers, adding a festive flair to the vibrant environment. This fusion of commerce and culture makes the market a key attraction in Mengman Town, reinforcing its reputation as a living cultural village where age-old traditions are preserved and celebrated.

During their visit, the media team had the opportunity to interview Ms. Kiengkhay, a Chinese merchant of Lao origin, who was honored with the Model Friendship Family award. This accolade, bestowed by the Women's Unions of Sing District in Luang Namtha Province and Mengla County in Xishuangbanna, recognizes her outstanding contributions to fostering friendship between the communities along the border.

Ms. Kiengkhay expressed her family's joy at receiving this honor, emphasizing their commitment to upholding their legacy of promoting cross-border harmony.

The market also serves as a platform for Lao merchants to showcase their agricultural and artisanal products, such as sesame, traditional Lao alcohol, craft items, and a variety of foods. Notable vendors like Ms. Sengkeo Inpanya, who specializes in sesame and other Lao produce, and Ms. Lort, known for her papaya salad and dried vegetables, reported brisk sales and enthusiastic reception from customers.

Complementing the market's commercial success is the Tai Lue tribal village in Mengla Town. It is a community of nearly 100 households. Here, the elders take pride in preserving their unique cultural traditions and lifestyle, fostering a peaceful environment where the old ways are cherished and passed down through generations.

Despite operating only once a week, the Lao-Chinese trade fair market attracts tens of thousands of visitors a day, becoming a beacon of cultural celebration and economic exchange. This lively market not only enriches the lives of those along the Laos-China border but also strengthens the bond between the two nations, reflecting a shared commitment to cultural preservation and economic collaboration.

KPL