DTI-6 ramps up efforts to boost MSME exports

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 6, in collaboration with the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), is capitalizing on export growth opportunities among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) through a learning session on exports dubbed “Seizing Philippine Export Opportunities by Boosting Export Potentials” on Friday, July 21.

The event brings together key stakeholders, industry experts, business support organizations, and aspiring exporters for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing regarding market trends and strategies to maximize the benefits of international trade.

“Export is a vital driver of economic growth and development, and it plays a significant role in advancing the competitiveness and prosperity of our region and our nation as a whole,” Ermelinda P. Pollentes, DTI-6 officer-in-charge director.

She added that would-be exporters will gain a “deeper understanding of the basics of exporting, market information, and opportunities for Halal products to Region 6 enterprises.”

Pollentes added that this supports the fast-tracking of the economic development of the region.

“We want that our products here and services should not stay here in Region 6 or within the country but really be exported so we can generate more sales, investments, or creation of jobs,” she added.

According to Pollentes, the region currently exports coal from Semirara Island in Antique; Piña-seda or pineapple-silk in Aklan; crafts and woven items of the locals in Iloilo, which is upscaled by the Regional Inclusive Innovation Center.

Pollentes also urged MSMEs to prioritize “quality, innovation, and environmental stewardship” as the region gears for more export opportunities.

“By embracing these principles, we can create products and services that meet the highest international standards, gain a competitive edge in global markets, and build long-lasting relationships with our international partners,” she added.

She furthered that the event also prepares exporters to avail of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). This is in line with the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement and the recently launched Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028.

The RCEP Agreement seeks to “establish a modern, comprehensive, high-quality, and mutually beneficial economic partnership that will facilitate the expansion of regional trade and investment and contribute to global economic growth and development.”

The PEDP 2023-2028, which was launched on June 15, targets to put the country on the pedestal as “a hub for export-oriented investments” by 2028.

It further aims to resolve binding constraints to export competitiveness, improve market access, increase the number of exporters accessing new markets and exporting new products, and increase the number of globally competitive exporters in the country.