By THEPHILBIZNEWS STAFF
SHANGHAI, CHINA – In a surprising record breaking sales compared to last year’s performance, the Philippine exhibitors secured around US$300 million in sales at the 2nd China International Import Exposition (CIIE) 2019 held last November 5-10.
“The big jump in sales since the last CIIE proves that the China sees the Philippines as a significant source of agricultural and other products. This motivates us to continue our efforts in getting more exhibitors to the CIIE, as well as improving trade relations and market access through the conclusion of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Suppliers, on their part, should increase their production to answer the demand of the Chinese market,” said Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez through the statement sent to the media.
This is actually more than twice the US$124 million recorded sales last year. Interestingly, fresh bananas, pineapples, mangoes and durian were the top sellers were; as well as processed fruits and nuts, and other coconut-based products.
(Photo courtesy of DTI OSEC)
The Trade Chief joined the 139-strong Philippine contingent from November 5-10 with 32 food exhibitors participating this year. With the huge opportunity in the Chinese food market, Sec. Lopez has advocated for continued, stronger and effective presence in the CIIE through strategic positioning of Philippine products to serve the upgraded requirements of Chinese consumers.
The CIIE started last year is a trade fair held in autumn in Shanghai and is the world’s first import-themed national-level expo. The total exhibition area of the CIIE exceeds 240,000 square meters and attracts an average of 150,000 professional buyers, with more than 100 participating countries. Amidst these immense numbers, Philippine products—known to be of quality to foreign buyers– received overwhelming approval at the CIIE.
Chinese buyers and consumers flocked to the Philippine Food Pavilion and were curious to explore what the Filipino exhibitors have to offer to them.
Philippine brands like San Miguel, Monde Nissin, Fisher Farms, Century Pacific and other companies, are also part of the exhibitors from the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Chef Bea Nitard of Via Mare used Philippine ingredients to prepare dishes suitable to the Chinese palate. The chef observed that the Chinese are not afraid to try new things and the Philippines should introduce more premium food products to the Chinese consumers. The popularity of the dishes was apparent in the long lines seen at the Food Philippines Pavilion every day.
