Capiz MSMEs pursue export growth in ‘Usapang Exports’ forum

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Capiz, in partnership with the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), gathered local entrepreneurs for the first “Usapang Exports” forum in the province on Aug. 15, 2025.

Held in Roxas City and initiated by 1st District Rep. Ivan Howard Guinto, the event aimed to address key challenges faced by Capiz micro, small, and medium enterprises and help them access global markets.

Capiz MSMEs are known for high-quality products—from agri-fisheries and processed foods to specialty coffee, artisanal cacao, fruit wines, handicrafts, and Capiz shells—many with strong export potential.

However, they continue to face barriers, including limited raw materials to meet export volumes and high capital requirements for scaling operations and securing regulatory compliance such as FDA licenses to operate.

In the province, only one MSME exports directly, and about eight do so indirectly.

While a few more are considered export-ready, many remain hesitant due to logistics concerns and a preference for the familiarity of local markets.

In her keynote speech, DTI Region 6 OIC-Regional Director Ma. Dinda Tamayo urged entrepreneurs to be bold in entering the export space.

“Natural resources abound, and the drive you have as entrepreneurs cannot be understated,” she said.

“The ball is in your hands—you are the key to make it or unmake it,” she added, emphasizing the importance of innovation and niche development.

EMB specialists presented DTI–EMB support programs, export procedures, and the CREATE MORE initiative, along with insights into global trends and opportunities in fisheries, cacao, and alcoholic beverage exports—areas where Capiz shows promise.

To further support participants, DTI Capiz set up MSME booths providing on-site services including IPAK packaging solutions, Small Business Corporation loan processing, business name registration and renewal, GoTyme digital platform and loan offerings, export and business consultancy from the Office of Rep. Guinto, and MSME development support from Blackhole Consultancy.

DTI Capiz OIC-Provincial Director Merian Asas reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening local enterprises through capacity-building, product development, and expanded market access.

Rep. Guinto said that with coordinated support from public and private sectors, Capiz can become a leader in export-driven growth.

“The potential for export in our province is immense,” he said.

“The seeds we plant today can grow into sustainable businesses that will benefit our province for generations.”