Mahoning Valley - The Vietnamese Chamber of Commerce (VCCI) has traveled thousands of miles to the Mahoning Valley to lead a trade mission until Oct.3. 

Ten Vietnamese delegations will travel to different counties in the area to explore new opportunities with local businesses.

The trade mission is a collaboration between Ohio SBDC Export Assistance Network (EAN) at Youngstown State University (YSU) and VCCI.  

At YSU, the VCCI from Ho Chi Minh City and Mahoning Valley business owners discussed ways they can meet each others needs by highlighting the importance of mutual exchange.

In 2023 Ohio's trade with Vietnam reached $4.7 billion. Local business leaders hope to see that number grow throughout the Mahoning Valley.

Mousa Kassis, director of Ohio SBDC EAN told 21 News there are several products that Valley businesses would exchange with Vietnamese companies.

"Electric machinery, oil, seed, plastic, woven fabric, electronics, and medical equipment," Kassis said. 

If products in the U.S. become scarce, several other items from Vietnamese companies would be exported to the area. Such as rubber, iron, and some steel products. 

The overall goal for the international partnership is to access new markets and sell products abroad.

During their four day trip, VCCI will meet with business leaders in Columbiana and Trumbull County.