SHANGHAI — The Philippines is expected to showcase its tropical flavors to the Chinese market as it participates in the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) from November 5-10.
The CIIE is China's premier exposition to promote international imports to China's domestic market. It is held every year at the National Exhibition and Convention Center.
Under the "FOODPhilippines" export brand, more than 30 food manufacturers and exporters will participate in the Philippine pavilion in a bid to solidify the country as a premier sourcing destination for high value tropical food, beverage and ingredients in the Southeast Asian region.
It also reflects the Philippines' agricultural capabilities while it adapts to the global demand for health-focused, eco-conscious, and convenient nutrition.
This year's delegation will focus on coconut innovations, with manny exhibitors showcasing high-value coconut derivatives, such as virgin coconut oil (VCO), fractionated coconut oils, organic sugar, coconut water, and beverages, among others.
They will be complemented with the country's core tropical fruit offerings like the Puyat durian, Carabao mangoes, bananas. and processed calamansi products, as well as specialty snacks, artisanala tablea cacao, and plant-based health blends.
Department of Trade and Industry - Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTI-CITEM) Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo said that the CIIE is a "crucial platform" to elevate Philippine food enterprised within global supply chains.
"China’s massive import market provides a vital gateway for our local small and medium enterprises to transition from commodity suppliers into competitive, value-added global players.“ Ocampo said.
She also said that the country's participation demonstrates the strength of Philippine agrifood as premium quality, with functional nutritional benefits and sustainable practices reinforces the Philippines' role as a "go-to sourcing destination in Southeast Asia, and creates lasting economic pathways that are inclusive of grassroots communities.”
The country's participation in the CIIE builds on the country's performance in the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), where Philippine exhibitors secured a record US$60 million in export sales.
It is the highest figure generated since CITEM first led the national delegation in 2004, and highlights the expanding market share, buyer confidence, and sustained demand for Filipino agrifood products across regional Chinese markets.
The Philippine pavilion will be opened on November 6 and will be participated by officials from the Philippine Embassy in Beijing, Philippine Consulate-General in Shanghai, and officials from the DTI and Department of Agriculture.