SHANGHAI — The Philippine Pavilion at the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) has officially opened on Friday, showcasing Filipino fruits and food to a potential market of over one billion people.
The CIIE is China's premier exposition to promote international imports to China's domestic market.
The Philippine Pavilion, under the "FOODPhilippines" export brand, brought together 30 food manufactuers and exporters to solidify the country as a premier sourcing destination for high value tropical food, beverage and ingredients in the Southeast Asian region.
In his address in the opening of the pavilion at the National Convention and Exhibition Center here, Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz said that the purpose of the mission remained consistent and clear, which is to bring Philippine products into the Chinese market, and into the shops, restaurants, and homes of Chinese consumers.
"Together, these efforts tell the story of our islands of opportunity–which served as a very visual theme for our trade promotion efforts in China. For many Chinese friends, the Philippines bring to mind beautiful beaches, tropical landscapes, and warm hospitality," FlorCruz said.
He added that the Philippine islands also produce a rich variety of food and other goods that the country is proud to share with the world.
"This pavilion brings a taste of those islands to Shanghai. Behind every product are farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs whose livelihoods benefit when Philippine goods find customers overseas," FlorCruz said.
He urged Chinese buyers and distributors to taste the products, ask its origins and how will they reach their customers.
"Whether you serve a supermarket, a restaurant, or a neighborhood shop, we hope you will find something Filipino-made, grown, or produced, to add to your offering," FlorCruz said.
He said that the Embassy in Beijing, its consulates, and trade and agriculture offices are ready to help connect with Filipino suppliers and sustain relationshops beyond the expo.
Department of Trade and Industry - Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo said the country's participation in the CIIE comes off after its record participation in the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo held in Nanning with over 70 companies and 300 delegates.
"China remains to be a vital trading partner and a catalyst for growth for our country. Let us take advantage of opportunities being offered by trade shows such as CIIE as our gateway for trade and collaboration," Ocampo said.
Some of the products being showcased in the fair included durians and bananas from Mindanao, coconut products and other Filipino snacks such as banana chips.
Agriculture Assistant Secretary Genevieve Velicaria Guevarra said the DA is facilitating market linkages between farmers and possible buyers through farm inputs.
"We link them with those buyers who are in need of agriproducts na in demand ngayon (that are in demand) and we make it a point na talagang yung farmers na sinusuportahan ng DA ang (those that the DA supports are among those) first in line," Guevarra told The Manila Times.
She also said that with the anticipated demand for the Chinese market, they are strengthening the production side of farm products.
