DTI chief highlights programs to boost the export sector

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual on 04 December 2023 highlighted the various programs and activities prepared by the Department to realize the country’s potential to become an agile export powerhouse.

Pascual said that through collective efforts from the public and private sector, the country’s export sector is poised to become a major player in the global market.

“To all the dedicated exporters here today, it is through your efforts that our nation continues its journey outward and forward—sharing our goods and services on the global stage. As we move forward, the world becomes more volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. Hence, we are challenged to adapt and innovate constantly.”

“This Exporters’ Week and Export Congress provide us with the opportunity to support each other in navigating this rapidly changing world, creating new pathways toward increasing export revenues, generating more jobs, and achieving global recognition,” he added.

The DTI chief emphasized that enabling the export sector is significant to the Philippine’s aim of seizing opportunities in the global market. He added that these export-oriented programs will contribute to the country’s aim to be a primary exporter of high-value products and services by 2028.

The Trade and Industry Secretary also outlined several activities that will be conducted in line of the National Exporters’ Week, which is aimed at empowering and strengthening the export sector.

These include (1) capacity-building workshop for women-owned/-led businesses; (2) Philippines-European Union (EU) Partnership Conference; (3) design thinking masterclass; (4) exporters’ exhibit; (5) export enablers’ exhibit; (6) business-to-business activities; and, (7) fireside chats.

Further, Pascual highlighted that the week-long events will feature presentations by experts and leaders from key export sectors that will tackle different strategies in responding to the fast-changing international business environment.

He also added that these sessions will identify the key elements of an enabling export environment alongside discussion on initiatives for export development and promotion.

By virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 931, series of 1996 and House Resolution No. 33, the National Exporters’ Week is celebrated every first week of December, and for this year, it is celebrated from December 4 to 7.

Recognizing the significance of the export sector in ensuring robust economic growth and expansion, Secretary Pascual stressed, “N-E-W has stood as a symbol of our shared commitment—between the government and the private sector—to firm up the Philippines’ standing in the ever-changing global export landscape. Let us continue working together to make it happen for the Philippine export community. Together, we can usher in the dawn of a globally competitive Bagong Pilipinas!”