The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is stepping up support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines’ fast-growing beauty sector, underscoring their role in driving innovation and global competitiveness.
This was highlighted during the Cosmetics, Toiletries and Fragrances Association of the Philippines (CTFAP) Summit 2026 held at Acacia Hotel in Alabang from March 11 to 12, where industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders gathered to map out the future of the personal care industry.
Representing DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, Regional Operations Group Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona emphasized the government’s continued commitment to strengthening the sector, particularly its many MSMEs.
She underscored the Department’s role in fostering a business environment that encourages innovation, competitiveness, and sustainability among Filipino enterprises. She emphasized that the DTI remains steadfast in supporting the cosmetics, toiletries, and fragrances industry by providing programs and services that help businesses navigate regulatory requirements, enhance product quality, adopt digital technologies, and expand their market reach.
Lantayona noted that MSMEs remain the backbone of the Philippine economy. Citing a 2024 Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) report, she said approximately 99.63% of registered businesses in the country are MSMEs, generating 66% of total employment.
Many players in the beauty and personal care sector, she added, started as small, homegrown ventures and have since evolved into competitive brands serving both local and international markets.
Recognizing this potential, the DTI continues to roll out initiatives aimed at strengthening value chains, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and helping enterprises compete in an increasingly innovation-driven global marketplace.
These efforts are especially critical in the personal care industry, where product development, safety compliance, and branding are key to building consumer trust and expanding market opportunities.
The Department’s programs are aligned with Secretary Roque’s Five-Point Strategic Agenda for MSMEs, which focuses on accelerating e-commerce and digitalization, promoting innovation-driven product development, advancing sustainability and green practices, strengthening entrepreneurial capacity, and expanding market access across ASEAN and beyond.
DTI also underscored the importance of continued collaboration with industry groups such as CTFAP to ensure Filipino beauty brands remain competitive, compliant with international standards, and responsive to evolving consumer demands.