Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair begins on Jan 5, 2012.[Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

The 28th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, co-hosted by the People's Government of the Harbin Municipality and the Industry and Information Technology Commission of Harbin, holds a grand opening ceremony at the Harbin International Conference Exhibition and Sports Center on Jan 5, 2012.

The yearly event opens at the same time as the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival and has become a local feature of the city. Nearly one million exhibitors from more than 50 countries and regions have taken part in the fair, which was first held in 1984.

On Jan 7, the Industry and Information Technology Commission of Harbin and officials from Xiangfang district, Harbin will hold a promotion conference at Volga Manor.