NINH THUẬN — More than 50,000 tourists and locals took part in the Grapes and Wine Festival in central province of Ninh Thuận, which will end today (Oct 1).

Speaking at the festival’s opening ceremony on Thursday, Lê Xuân Vĩnh, chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, said: “The festival aims to introduce Ninh Thuận’s most signature specialties – grape and wine – to local and foreign tourists.”

“It also honours grape farmers, companies and scientists who contribute to the province’s grape growing, and create opportunities for them to share experiences, as well as seek partners.”

The festival, held at tourist attractions and heritage sites, includes a fair of 160 stalls introducing different grape varieties, products from grapes and wine, and cuisine.

A grape and wine conference was organised to discuss technologies and promotion of grape products. Tours to grape fields in the countries were featured as well.

Nguyễn Phương Lan, a tourist from HCM City, said: “The festival is amazing. I have a chance to learn more about grape and wine.”

Lan said she visited Ba Mọi grape field, one of the first grape fields in Ninh Thuận.

“I’m interested in how all products from grapes are made. All of the products are very good. The wine is incredible,” she said.

The organisers also hosted a seminar to call for support from foreign embassies and international organisations to preserve the Chăm Towers System as well as the Chăm people’s culture and tradition.

According to the province’s Agriculture and Rural Development, Ninh Thuận has 1,200 hectares of grape fields with an average yield of 30,000 tonnes of fresh grapes per year.

The province produces 60 tonnes of wine each year. It also provides a variety of grape products such as syrup, jelly, jam and raisins. — VNS