Human Touch in Full Bloom: Manila FAME 2026 Set to Capture New Era of Global Design

As Artificial Intelligence and rapid automation reshape how the world works and creates, a counter-movement is quietly taking root across the global lifestyle landscape: a renewed hunger for objects shaped by human hands. Consumers worldwide are turning away from mass-produced uniformity in favor of pieces that tell authentic stories, celebrate artisanal heritage, and bring emotional restoration into the home.

 

This global appetite for intentional design sets the stage for the 74th edition of Manila FAME, the country’s flagship export trade show for home, fashion, and lifestyle. Scheduled for October 15–17, 2026, at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, the premier event gathers roughly 400 Philippine manufacturers and brands to meet the world’s growing demand for soulful, sustainable craftsmanship.

 

The timing could not be more opportune. Earlier this year, Philippine showcases at major European trade platforms—including Maison & Objet in Paris and Ambiente in Frankfurt—received strong buyer enthusiasm. International sourcing teams gravitated toward the country’s raw material mastery, particularly in turning native abaca, rattan, and natural fibers into high-end contemporary furnishings. This proven track record on the European circuit demonstrates that global markets are actively seeking what Filipino makers do best: blending heritage techniques with forward-thinking design.

 

According to Executive Director Leah Pulido Ocampo of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM)—the organizer of Manila FAME—this momentum makes the 74th edition a critical turning point for Philippine exports. “What makes this upcoming edition truly special is how it aligns grassroots Filipino artistry with global market readiness. We are not just showcasing beautiful objects; we are nurturing an ecosystem where our artisan communities can flourish sustainably on the international stage. Manila FAME 2026 reflects a mature, highly competitive Philippine design sector that knows its story and has the technical capability to deliver it to the world,” said Ocampo.

 

This year’s edition unfolds under the theme “Bloom,” signaling a natural evolution from last year’s botanical-focused “Objects of Nature.” While the showcase continues to explore organic forms and biomimicry—learning from nature’s design solutions—Bloom delves deeper into the flourishing of Filipino artisan communities themselves.

 

The theme reflects broader cultural shifts tracked by global trend forecaster WGSN, which highlights a post-digital mindset known as Witherwill—a desire to step back from constant digital pressure and embrace objects that foster calm and emotional well-being. Furthermore, as trend forecasters look ahead to the WGSN and Coloro 2027 Colour of the Year, Luminous Blue, design is increasingly bridging the gap between natural elements and future-focused innovation.

 

To translate these global shifts into export-quality products, Manila FAME continues its rigorous product development mentorship. Under the Design Commune program, multi-awarded designer Tony Gonzales has guided 20 participating companies to co-create 90 new prototypes in home decor and lighting. Meanwhile, the Home at FAME sector, led by acclaimed furniture and interior designer Milo Naval, will unveil 40 new furniture and lighting pieces developed in collaboration with 10 established exhibitors.

 

At the grassroots level, the Artisans Village program engages 50 regional enterprises to generate over 100 fresh product designs. Renowned designer and trend forecaster Patti Carpenter, alongside designer Emma Gutierrez, has mentored participating brands across Bohol, Aklan, and Tarlac, while designer Rachelle Dagnalan leads eight companies in Isabela to produce 24 new prototypes.

 

These featured provinces bring distinct material legacies to the global market: Bohol offers intricate natural fiber weaving; Aklan contributes its world-renowned piña textiles and heritage loom-weaving; Tarlac delivers refined woodcraft and upcycled artisanal accents; and Isabela brings material innovations using sustainable timber, bamboo, and agro-industrial fibers.

 

Complementing this creative push is a deliberate strategic initiative: positioning international accreditations and compliance standards at the core of Manila FAME’s buyer attraction framework. Recognizing that global retail chains and hospitality buyers increasingly demand proof of ethical sourcing, CITEM is leveraging the sector's existing strengths in fair trade, eco-certified materials, and responsible production. By highlighting these accredited practices, Manila FAME aims to build deeper commercial trust, entice premium international sourcing agents, and seamlessly unlock new export markets.

 

Running concurrently at the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC) is the Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX)—CITEM’s flagship initiative dedicated to driving sustainable transformation across the country's export sectors. Through a conference, exhibition, and startup pitch competition, SSX connects lifestyle, home, and fashion businesses with actionable circular economy strategies, green technologies, and eco-friendly solutions to meet evolving global standards. 

 

Organized by CITEM—the export promotion arm of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)—in partnership with the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) and the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), Manila FAME 2026 stands as a testament to the enduring power of human creativity in a digital age.

 

For trade buyer registration and event updates, visit https://fameplus.com/manila_fame.

Likhang Filipino Takes Manhattan

A curated selection of furniture, lighting and home décor by leading Philippine manufacturers and exporters is now on display at the Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue in New York City until September 30, 2026.

Since opening on May 4, the Likhang Filipino window display has welcomed hundreds of guests from the design, architecture and trade communities. Visitors have been drawn to the exhibition’s distinctive presentation – a mix of elegant, rustic, modern and functional pieces reflecting the craftsmanship, creativity and design sensibility of contemporary Philippine makers using various materials.

 

Featuring the works of 11 Philippine exporters [For Furniture & Furnishings: A. Garcia Lifestyle, Inc.; Fifty One All Weather; Filipino Creazione; Mejore; South Sea Veneer; and Tadeco], [For Décor & Accessories: Aerostone; Larone; Nature’s Legacy; That One Piece; and Weave Manila] – the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) mounted the exhibition as part of ongoing efforts to bring Philippine products closer to international buyers, industry stakeholders and global audiences. Set in one of the world’s most vibrant commercial and cultural corridors, the showcase offers Philippine design brands a strategic platform to strengthen market presence, cultivate new business opportunities and expand international visibility.

 

As Executive Director, Leah Pulido-Ocampo conceived: “Bringing Likhang Filipino to New York  is a strategic move to establish our foothold in the US market, complementing our participation in the world’s largest home furnishings industry tradeshow, the Highpoint Market in North Carolina.”  This eventually opened possibilities for future collaborations between Philippine manufacturers and the International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA). More than a product display, Likhang Filipino underscores the Philippine’s growing reputation as a source of finely crafted, globally competitive, and design driven products. Through initiatives such as this, Philippine-made creations continue to gain recognition in the international marketplace while celebrating the country’s rich tradition of craftsmanship.

 

Leading its launching on May 4, 2026, were Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, and Trade Commissioner Alma Argayoso together with CITEM’s, DC Anna Marie Alzona, STIDS Karla Grace Dinglasan alongside consultants Tony Gonzales, International Furnishing and Design Association (IFDA) President Dondrill Glover and Global Trend Ambassador Patti Carpenter.

 

With the current exhibition running until the end of September 2026 watch out for Likhang Filipino’s Christmas Holiday showcase which is scheduled to open in October this year. Expect more of these satellite shows as we bring Likhang Filipino across the globe.

 

The Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls is a project of the Office of the President, managed and operated by CITEM.

Nature Meets Wellness: PH to Showcase Healthy Products at Indusfood 2026

The Philippines will aim to deliver a strong performance in Indusfood 2026, presenting four capable enterprises with healthy, premium-quality products to the Indian market.

With support from the Department of Trade and Industry-Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (DTI-CITEM), the Philippine exhibitors for this edition will showcase dried vegetable leaves, tropical snacks, crackers, and processed fruits. These offerings are produced through responsible farming and processing systems, with global certifications affirming their manufacturers’ compliance with food safety and quality standards. The producers draw from the country’s natural strengths—fertile soil, favorable climate, and established agricultural practices—to supply the global market with distinctly Filipino food products.

This participation is part of DTI-CITEM's efforts to create pathways for Philippine products in India, where demand for healthy and natural food continues to rise. 

This year’s exhibitors will be presented at the India Exposition Mart’s International Hall (Hall 1) under the FOODPhilippines banner, a CITEM-led industry branding initiative that promotes the Philippines as a dependable sourcing destination for food and ingredients. 

Innovative enterprises ready for global market

The lineup of Filipino exhibitors includes Dry Tech Manufacturing Corp., which will highlight ready-to-cook dried taro, moringa, lemongrass, and pandan leaves under its Sheentaro brand. The company uses eco-friendly drying technologies and responsible agricultural practices to produce natural, hygienic, pesticide-free ingredients suited to India’s plant-based market.

Also in the group is Monde M.Y. San Corporation, an accomplished Filipino biscuit and cracker manufacturer known for brands such as Skyflakes, Fita, and M.Y. San Grahams. The company uses advanced baking technology to maintain the quality of its goods and to ensure their production processes are sustainable. With over 90 years of experience, Monde M.Y. San will present its Skyflakes Snack Pack, Garlic Snack Pack, and Onion and Chives Snack Pack.

One Vizcaya Export Corporation will highlight sustainably sourced ube powder, calamansi, saba bananas, and fruit bars. Established in 2020, the company aims to supply high-value products that meet India’s growing interest in healthy fruit-based goods.

See’s International Food Manufacturing Corp., maker of Gold Chips banana chips, will feature snacks produced from freshly harvested Philippine bananas. The company highlights its products for India’s growing demand for premium tropical snacks.

Launched in 2017, Indusfood is one of Asia’s prominent food and beverage trade shows, providing a platform for exporters to connect with global buyers and widen their reach. Indusfood 2026 will run from January 8 to 10, 2026 at the India Exposition Mart in Greater Noida.

In addition to supporting enterprises in overseas trade fairs, DTI-CITEM organizes the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines, the Philippines’ largest business-to-business and export-oriented trade show for food, beverage, and ingredients. As the longest-running food sourcing event in the Philippines, IFEX Philippines spotlights premium products from across the regions and positions the country as a dependable supplier in the global market. Co-located within IFEX Philippines is the Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) Exhibition and Conference, a platform that showcases innovations, facilitates knowledge exchange, and fosters collaborative solutions that support the country’s development of a circular economy. 

The 19th edition of IFEX Philippines will run from May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.

Register as an IFEXConnect exhibitor: https://citem.ph/p/6d5e50

Register as an IFEXConnect trade buyer: https://citem.ph/p/b426fb

 

Catch FOODPhilippines in the following trade fairs: 

 

· Anuga

· China-ASEAN Expo under PARTNERPhilippines

· China International Import Expo

· FOODEX JAPAN

· Gulfood

· Private Label Middle East

· SEOUL FOOD

· SIAL Paris

 

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotion arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). CITEM advances the country’s image as a premier sourcing destination for quality export products and services.  

CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export promotion in partnership with other government and private entities

CITEM Market Sensing Mission to Taiwan to Strengthen PH SDG Competency

Building a more inclusive and resilient future for the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is embarking on a strategic market sensing mission to Taiwan. Attending SDG Asia 2025 from September 11-13, 2025 at the Taipei World Trade Center, the CITEM-led delegation will gather crucial insights on the latest business models, innovations, and technologies in food systems, smart cities, and the circular economy. 

This mission aims to position Filipino enterprises as key players in the global sustainability landscape, fostering new partnerships, and identifying export growth opportunities that advance the nation's sustainability agenda. This strategic visit reinforces the Philippines' commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN). All these reflect CITEM's mandate to promote Philippine products and services in the global market, with a special focus on sustainable and innovative sectors. 

Taiwan, as a leading proponent of sustainability, consistently demonstrates its expertise in renewable energy, energy-efficient buildings, and waste management. It has also actively shared its knowledge and technology in disaster preparedness and climate adaptation. Taiwan is actively working toward achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2050 as part of its contribution to curbing global climate change.  

The delegation is composed of 11 enablers and sustainability advocates from local governments, agencies, and companies in green technology. Their advocacies are anchored on key concepts interrelated to sustainable development, such as economic stability, environmental impact, good governance, and societal health. For instance, the Municipality of Buguey in Cagayan spearheads climate-resilient, eco-friendly practices for farmers and fisherfolk toward sustainable product development and food security. For DTI Region I, which covers Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan, it enhances the region’s competitiveness through global green design and safety standards in product development, logistics efficiency, and responsible consumerism. Another participant, Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp., focuses on creating products that address nutritional health amidst poverty, calamities, and overall well-being. Meanwhile, the Quezon City Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office champions inclusivity of micro and small enterprises and cooperatives through capacity-building, financing, and mentorship programs.

The rest of the delegation are representing the following offices: DTI-CARAGA, DTI-Ilocos Norte, and DTI-Pangasinan. 

The diverse roster follows a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to exploring sustainable solutions and fostering international collaboration. In cooperation with Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taipei, the visiting team will also participate in facility visits during the mission.

The country’s sustainability efforts are guided by the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) 2024-2028, a joint strategic planning framework for partnership between the Philippines and the UN. This CF aligns with the global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

This year’s market sensing mission also serves as a platform to promote next year’s Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) Conference and Exhibition to be held at the Philippine Trade Training Center, Pasay City, Philippines that is concurrent with the 19th edition of IFEX Philippines on May 21-23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, Philippines.

The SSX is one of CITEM’s signature programs that is the country’s first platform promoting sustainable practices, resources, and technology to the world’s essential industries. SSX creates avenues for Philippine MSMEs and other businesses to continue or transition toward a circular economy.

Rediscover the True Nature of Design at Manila FAME 2025

Rediscover the true nature of Filipino design at Manila FAME 2025

 

As the second-longest-running trade show in Asia, Manila FAME has built a legacy as the must-attend international sourcing event for Filipino artistry and craftsmanship. For its 73rd edition, happening on October 16-18 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, the country’s premier trade fair for all things home, fashion, and lifestyle is returning to the core and diving into the roots of Filipino design.

 

With the theme “Objects of Nature,” this year’s iteration is set to be a celebration of everything that makes Filipino artistry sought after all over the world. “The word ‘nature’ refers to our physical world, and it can also mean the qualities that are basic or inherent to a person or an object,” CITEM Executive Director Leah Pulido-Ocampo explains. “Within these contexts, ‘Objects of Nature’ has Manila FAME going right into the heart of what we do best. In the process, we unveil the unique selling propositions of our products that have made the Philippines a must-visit sourcing destination for design.”

 

Reconnecting with community and the environment through design

The trade show’s theme takes into account the current international trends, all of which point to nature as a dominating key element for 2025 and 2026. From the use of recycled and upcycled materials to bolder, more playful aesthetics and nature-connected living spaces, the prevalent direction puts a strong focus on sustainability and biophilic design, with the latter a concept that nurtures the relationship between people and the environment.

 

The intrinsic qualities of Filipino design make it a natural fit for this prevailing movement. Thus, Manila FAME 2025 promises to showcase Philippine-made objects inspired by design’s original muse, nature.

 

Visitors can expect a fresh take on design that provides a counterpoint to the increasing influence and impact of technology and AI on daily life. Find meticulously handcrafted items made from natural and indigenous materials, creatively conceptualized and executed using community-based production processes. Discover their multiple iterations, inspired by our rich cultural diversity and heritage. Fall in love with products that are as adaptable as they are unique, thanks to the Filipino pasadya culture that results in bespoke beauty.

 

Highlighting not just products but also people and processes

Since communal effort and cultural influences are innate aspects of Filipino design, Manila FAME’s signature features rightly put the spotlight on the people and the heritage that shape it.

 

Merging artisanship with innovation and sustainability, Design Commune once again has a selection of local manufacturers and brands working under the expert guidance of a renowned designer—this time, with one of Manila FAME’s frequent collaborators, Tony Gonzales. See how the hard work of 21 exhibitors from the lamps and lighting, furniture, home decor, and holiday and seasonal decor categories pushes the boundaries of product development at a dedicated exhibit. Check out the new items that feature the creative use of raw materials, resulting in clever and functional designs.

To cultivate the export capabilities of Philippine artisan communities and enterprises, the capacity-building program Artisans Village provides marketing and technical assistance to regional MSMEs in the handicraft sector and, in the process, highlights products from featured provinces and regions, including their use of indigenous materials, local crafts, and innovative techniques. For 2025, participating MSMEs are fortunate to have Global Trends Ambassador Patti Carpenter making factory visits to help them conceptualize and develop pieces that match their branding while also sharing her vast knowledge of the design business. The design expert is working with local artisans from the following provinces to explore how they could maximize their signature materials and expand their product lineup: Bohol (natural fibers and materials), Ilocos Sur (inabel), Quirino (woodworks and fossilized flowers), and Tarlac (wood, stone, clay, and rattan).

 

Visitors will also get to learn from design and business experts and thought leaders at FAME Talks. Through forums that tackle timely topics, such as “Innovative, Versatile, and Sustainable Approaches to Designing Products for the Home, Fashion, and Lifestyle Sector” and “Global Design Trends for Fashion Accessories,” attendees can delve deeper into the dynamic world of design, gain creative and actionable insights, and develop innovative strategies for navigating an evolving landscape.

 

Elevating how trade shows are done

Guests can look forward, too, to exclusive features that will further enrich their ManilaFAME experience.

 

From a simple product category, Philippine Components, which made its maiden showcase last year, is now an exhibit that focuses on the fundamental building blocks of design: coverings, parts, and fittings. With Tony Gonzales also at its helm for 2025, guests can expect an immersive presentation of specially developed architectural fittings and components developed exclusively for Manila FAME by 15 companies, in the spirit of the pasadya culture.

 

CITEM also brings two of its innovative programs to Manila FAME to showcase a more integrative approach to exporting design. First is CREATELab, an on-site design clinic where professionals offer branding and marketing guidance to participating exhibitors. It is a joint project by CREATEPhilippines, a content and community platform for the Philippine creative industries, and the Communication Design Association of the Philippines (CDAP). Next, with “sustainability” a key concept this year, it’s only right that Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX), the country’s first platform promoting sustainable practices, resources, and technology to the world’s essential industries, makes its return to Manila FAME to showcase MSMEs that incorporate circularity into their business practices.

 

Attendees looking to see more of the intersection between traditional crafts and contemporary creativity can also drop by LIKHA, an artisanal exhibit spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady. Marking its fifth edition by participating in Manila FAME 2025, LIKHA will offer the public the opportunity to witness artisans at work, learn more about their creative process, and support locally made, heritage-rich products.

 

Manila FAME 2025 will be a reminder why the Philippines was regarded as the ‘Milan of Asia’ during the ‘80s and the ‘90s,” Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Assistant Secretary Al Valenciano says. “We are optimistic that it will generate international sales for our exhibitors, boosting the Philippine design industry to become an even bigger contributor to the country’s economic growth and a bigger player in the global export market.“

 

With all of the programs and features this year’s trade show has in store, buyers and visitors alike can expect to see the best of the best of Filipino artistry and craftsmanship across a wide range of products: fashion; personal care, beauty, and wellness; furniture; home decor and houseware; lamps and lighting; holiday and seasonal decor; gifts, souvenirs, and corporate giveaways; and components.

 

Marvel at these “Objects of Nature” and more up close at Manila FAME 2025 by registering at the trade show’s official website, fameplus.com.

Exhibitions to Watch out for in Manila FAME 2023

Subhead: Learn about the three-day sourcing show’s components promoting artisanal craftsmanship from across the Philippines.

By: Aly Dela Peña

This year's edition of Manila FAME will showcase artisanal craftsmanship through its various show components. The Artisans Village and The Coconut Pavilion are two must-see features of the three-day sourcing event. The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) collaborated with the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), and various local government units to highlight the works of local artisan communities.

Manila FAME, the second longest running trade show for the home, fashion, and lifestyle sectors in the Asia Pacific, is set to celebrate its 71st edition on October 19-21, 2023 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City.

Here’s what you can discover from the two exciting components of the sourcing event.

Manila FAME's Artisans Village–an extensive showcase of homegrown artisanal crafts representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The Artisans Village

This holistic program for regional MSMEs in the handicraft sector provides marketing and technical assistance such as product showcases, product development assistance in partnership with the DCP, digital promotions, and capacity-building activities.

For the 2023 edition of Manila FAME, the Artisans Village will feature the provinces of La Union and Antique, and Northern Mindanao region. 

In La Union, Governor Raphaelle Ortega-David spearheaded #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan, a banner movement which provides developmental support for Research and Development (R&D) to MSMEs. It leverages the natural materials and techniques the artisan communities have mastered. 

On the other hand, the Creations of Northern Mindanao pavilion will feature masterpieces from award-winning designers, as well as artisans featured in prestigious international fairs. It will display abaca-based wearables and homestyle products, bamboo crafts, and various local weaves.

For Antique, the exhibition will carry the creations born out of the collaboration of its  MSMEs and artisanal communities with DCP and DTI-Antique. The pavilion will follow the theme "Hantique", which highlights the hands that craft artfully woven pieces in the province of Antique. The products from the province ranging from textiles, looms, and home decors are set to make their debut at Manila FAME 2023 before going to international trade fair Ambiente 2024 in Germany.

Lighting fixtures made of coconut husks featured at the Manila FAME exhibition in 2017.

The Coconut Pavilion

Considered to be one of the Philippines' most-produced crops, coconut has been commonly used for food and household products. Manila FAME, in collaboration with EMB and DCP, saw this as an opportunity to create lifestyle products using the abundant raw material. The Coconut Pavilion houses the products from the program dedicated to develop and showcase nonfood coconut commodities in the home and fashion sectors.

A total of 15 brands have been developing new pieces  for the showcase. These new products, along with the coconut-based products from 10 additional brands, will be showcased in Manila FAME’s Coconut Pavilion. This special setting aims to promote sustainability and spotlight Filipino craftsmanship and design innovation.

The participating provinces and regions joining the pavilion are NCR, Region III, Region IV-A, Region V, Region VII, Region VIII, and Region XI.

A Manila FAME “staple”

The show will also have Design Commune, a showcase of brand new home, fashion, and lifestyle pieces that have been created under CITEM's product development program. Renowned Filipino designers Tony Gonzales, Rita Nazareno, and Gabriel Lichauco collaborated with 40 local companies to create more than 300 products in time for the sourcing event.

Manila FAME’s 2023 edition is organized in partnership with The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), RLC Residences, Jewelmer, and the Philippine Airlines as the official carrier.

Register at https://bit.ly/MF2023-Reg or go to https://fameplus.com/manila_fame for more details.

Philippine Halal-Certified Food Products Set to Steal the Spotlight at Gulfood 2023

A delegation of 18 Philippine companies will showcase premium halal-certified food products through a country exhibit at the Gulf Food Hotel and Equipment Exhibition and Salon Culinaire, or Gulfood, to be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre in the United Arab Emirates from February 20 to 24, 2023.

Led by the Center of International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the Philippines’ hybrid participation will consist of manufacturers and exporters of fresh and processed fruits and vegetables; processed marine products; ethnic and gourmet products; non-alcoholic beverages; confectionary, biscuits, and pastries; and other food and beverage categories.

The Philippine participation will highlight small and medium enterprises (MSEs) with halal certification and high-value and innovative products under the banner of the country's collective food promotion program, FOODPhilippines.

CITEM seeks to strengthen the Philippines’ presence in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region through its participation in Gulfood. Gulfood is a renowned international platform dedicated to food and beverage processing in the MEA, attracting more than 98,000 key industry players and decision-makers and over 5,000 exhibitors yearly. As one of the world's largest food and beverage trade exhibitions, Gulfood is instrumental in expanding the Philippines’ market share in the global halal trade.

Banana, one of the Philippines' top food exports, is among the products and ingredients that will be showcased in the Philippine pavilion.

“We want to position the Philippines as a reliable source of fresh, healthy, and natural food products and ingredients to match the trend toward healthier and more sustainable diets. The Philippines' participation in Gulfood 2023 is extremely strategic because the MEA region is one of the biggest markets for halal food, which often overlaps with organic and plant-based food," said Trade Promotions Group (TPG) Assistant Secretary Glenn G. Peñaranda.

Gulfood offers opportunities for Philippine exhibitors to connect with new buyers and expand their markets.

The UAE remains an attractive market for Philippine produce and goods as food exports to the country have remained steady amid the pandemic, according to the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Dubai. It is also the most important import market for halal products in the Middle East along with Saudi Arabia.

“The Philippines' participation in Gulfood is critical to increasing our share of the halal food market. Because of the large population of Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates, there's also a growing demand for Filipino food products. We are confident that this year's participation will yield positive results and aid in the mainstreaming of Philippine food products and ingredients in the long run,” said Dr. Edward L. Fereira, Ph. D., CITEM Executive Director.

The country’s participation in Gulfood 2023 will benefit from the agency’s updated lead generation and digital promotion platforms for the food industry. This year, CITEM aims to enhance the country’s hybrid participation by providing a “365 sourcing experience” with a strategic combination of physical and digital components.

The Philippine pavilion will be located at booths R152 and R174 of the Sheikh Rashid Hall. The Philippines' hybrid participation is organized by the Department of Trade and Industry’s export promotion arm, CITEM, in partnership with PTIC-Dubai.

More products from Philippine Gulfood exhibitors, as well as hundreds of other small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), will be showcased at IFEX Philippines, which will be held at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City, Philippines from May 26 to 28, 2023. You can also visit the exhibitors' digital storefronts at IFEXConnect.com or browse stories on the Philippines' rich food culture and culinary landscape at foodphilippines.com.

About CITEM

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotions arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

For nearly 40 years, CITEM has established the country’s image as a premier destination for quality export products and services. It continues to set the highest standards of creativity, excellence and innovation to achieve competitiveness in the home, fashion, lifestyle, food, creative, and sustainability sectors.

CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export marketing in partnership with other government and private entities.

About FOODPhilippines

FOODPhilippines promotes the country as a source of quality food products and ingredients in physical and/or digital trade shows and business-to-business platforms in priority markets around the world.

Under the FOODPhilippines banner, the Philippines is positioned as an exporter of healthy, organic, natural, and specialty food products and services.

PH Participation in China Expo a Resounding Success

The Philippines generated a record-high $655.15 million in sales through its trade fair participation at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai held early in November. This is the highest yield recorded for a Philippine country participation anywhere in the world for the year, and the highest sales generated from the CIIE since its inception in 2018.

The Philippines' hybrid participation, led by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), included 62 food and food-related companies, the highest number of Philippine exhibitors in the CIIE to date.

Secretary Fred Pascual of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in his remarks during the official opening of the CIIE participation, stated that, “Our participation in the CIIE has become not only a practical response to opportunity but an imperative to expand our international market, cement the Philippines’ reputation as a reliable sourcing destination for food, and introduce more quality food products into China’s mainstream markets.”
On-site sales and bulk purchase contracts accounted for 97% of total sales, while the remaining 3% came from online business-matching activities.

“The amount of products we export to China has vastly increased in the past 5-6 years, and sales were 5 times higher compared to the first time the Philippines has participated in the 2018 CIIE,” said Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) Shanghai head Mario C. Tani.

The CIIE was launched in 2018 as one of China's major trade promotion initiatives, with China President Xi Jinping attending the first two editions in Shanghai. Despite the pandemic, increased sales were generated both in 2020 and 2021.

At the forefront of the CIIE pavilion design and conceptualization, CITEM presented a one-country promotional approach with a single storyline, a call to experience a “Festival of Island Flavors.” The Philippine pavilion showcased three brands: FOODPhilippines, CoconutPhilippines, and Liwayway China's well-known Oishi brand.

The DTI, through its Trade Promotions Group (TPG) and the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), also established strategic alliances by signing cooperation intentions with two of China's largest food chambers, the Beijing-based China Chamber of Commerce of Foodstuffs and Native Produce (CFNA) and the Shanghai Food Association (SFA).

With a combined membership of 7,500 companies, these cooperation arrangements will be critical to enhancing cooperation between Philippine and Chinese companies in areas such as business-matching, technical cooperation, and investments to boost food production capacity.
“We value the partnership with CFNA and SFA as we pursue increased collaboration in enhancing food trade. We hope that this can progress to deeper collaboration in the whole value chain in food production, processing and marketing,” said DTI’s OIC for TPG, Assistant Secretary Glenn Peñaranda.
The Philippines' hybrid participation is led by DTI through CITEM, its export promotion arm. It is co-organized with the Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC) through the Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Shanghai (PTIC-Shanghai), the Export Marketing Bureau, together with partner agencies, the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Office of the Agricultural Counsellor in Beijing (OAC-Beijing), and the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT).

About CITEM

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is the export promotions arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

For nearly 40 years, CITEM has established the country’s image as a premier destination for quality export products and services. It continues to set the highest standards of creativity, excellence and innovation to achieve competitiveness in the home, fashion, lifestyle, food, creative, and sustainability sectors.

CITEM is committed to developing, nurturing, and promoting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), brands, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an integrated approach to export marketing in partnership with other government and private entities.

About FOODPhilippines

FOODPhilippines promotes the country as a source of quality food products and ingredients in physical and/or digital trade shows and business-to-business platforms in priority markets around the world.

Under the FOODPhilippines banner, the Philippines is positioned as an exporter of healthy, organic, natural, and specialty food products and services.