The Philippines secured about $8.13 million in confirmed and potential sales from various quality coconut-based food products during its recent debut at TuttoFood Milano, one of the most prestigious international platforms for the agrifood industry.
According to a news release from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), these coconut-based products, such as coconut oil, virgin coconut oil, coconut flour, beverages, and specialty food items, accounted for $2.25 million of total projected sales, highlighting sustained international demand for premium Philippine coconut offerings.
Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque said that this outcome affirms the country’s strategic push into the European market.
“Our first successful participation at TuttoFood Milano clearly demonstrates how Filipino exporters can seize global opportunities,” Roque said.
“By providing the right platform, we empower them to connect with international buyers, gain critical market insights, and secure immediate and long-term export deals, thereby elevating the Philippines’ reputation as a reliable source of high-quality, sustainable food products,” she added.
The mission also opened potential investment and technical partnerships, with the Philippine delegation engaging with 102 new potential business partners. Three exhibitors are now in advanced discussions with potential partners across Europe, the Middle East, and West Asia.
Ahead of the event, nine companies received pre-event coaching and on-site support to enhance their export strategies. They also joined trendspotting forums and networking sessions, where they gained insights into European consumer preferences, sustainability practices, and regulatory requirements.
For the participating entrepreneurs, the experience provided crucial market intelligence.
“It has provided valuable insights that will shape our future strategy—from refining our product offering and enhancing our packaging to adopting more sustainable and efficient ways of working,” said Maureen Pasciolco, an executive of Pasciolco Agri Ventures.
Meanwhile, Allison Jean Bautista of Cocoplus Aquarian Development Corp. added that the fair expanded their business outlook.
“The experience has not only enhanced our knowledge and expertise but also opened up new avenues for growth and collaboration.”
The Philippine participation was led by the DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau, in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Paris, the International Trade Centre’s ARISE Plus Philippines Project, and the Philippine Coconut Authority.
Other participating companies included Bahaghari Global Good Inc., Cattleya & Rose Gourmet Foods Trading, Fruits of Life, Inc., Good Sense Food and Juices Corp., Sandpiper Spices and Condiments Corp., Soyuz Foods International Inc., and Wellnesscare International Corp.
To learn more about Philippine exports, email exports@dti.gov.ph or visit www.tradelinephilippines.dti.gov.ph.
