PHILIPPINE coconut export generated US$6.90 million or P381.55 million during the five-day Thaifex-Anuga Asia 2023 trade exhibition last May 21 to 27, 2023, at Impact Muang Thong Thani Bangkok, Thailand.
The participation of the country’s coconut exporters under the Coconut Philippines Pavilion was arranged by the Department of Trade and Industry-Export Marketing Bureau and the International Trade Centre, in coordination with Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Bangkok and Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization Inc.
The initiative was part of the implementation of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan and the ARISE Plus Philippines project.
“The Philippine’s participation in Thaifex-Anuga Asia served as a gateway to expanding horizons and enhancing the nation’s standing as a dependable and premium source of coconut products,” said Assistant Secretary Glenn Peñaranda, Trade Promotion Group officer-in-charge.
“Aside from support to trade fair participation, the assistance also includes capacity-building initiatives which aim to enable our exporters to better seize market access opportunities and facilitate business linkages with international markets, particularly in the EU (European Union),” he said.
Nine coconut exporters and two industry associations showcased their high-value coconut products.
These companies included AG Pacific Nutriceuticals Corp., Ahya Coco Organic Food Manufacturing Corp., Amazing Foods Corp., Amparitas Food Products Manufacturing, Cocoplus Aquarian Development Corp., Dignity Products & Services Inc., Pasciolco Agri Ventures, Wellness Care International Corp. and Vegetari Vegetarian Products.
Representatives from industry associations namely Virgin Coconut Oil Producers and Traders Association of the Philippines, Inc. and United Coconut Association of the Philippines Inc. were also present in the fair.
As one of the premier international trade shows in Asia, the Thaifex participation has been considered a substantial platform for establishing linkages and increasing the understanding of exhibitors on the demands and distribution routes that will impact the coconut industry.
The exhibitors emphasized that the participation was not just about showcasing the products and services but also about unlocking a world of international insights and opportunities as it provided quality buyers and potential leads for them.
During the pavilion’s opening ceremony, Philippine Ambassador Millicent Paredes reminded the exhibitors to continue to ignite their passion for more opportunities to grow their businesses, the economy and the country. (DCL)