DTI strengthens MSMEs’ market links in Boracay

TO DEVELOP and strengthen the presence of Aklanon products in the Boracay Island market, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Aklan held the Negosyo Links 2019 with the theme “ Bridging the Gap between Supply and Demand” at La Carmela, Boracay, Malay, Aklan on Aug 20, 2019.

Negosyo links is an annual marketing event which aims to strengthen market linkage between the tourism establishments in Boracay, e.g. hotels, resorts and souvenir shops, and the local Micro, Small, and Medium Entrepreneurs in Aklan (MSMEs).

As Boracay Island reopened, it brought more opportunities for our local entrepreneurs especially for products, particularly, seafoods, rice and meat, by the accommodation facilities

Thus, Negosyo Links 2019, brought in suppliers of fresh and processed foods, wearables and garments, homestyle and souvenir items, furniture and other indigenous crafts, and health and wellness products.

An exhibit area was provided for suppliers to showcase their products to invited buyers.

Twenty Aklanon MSMEs and 4 MSMEs from other provinces (Capiz and Antique) in Region VI, and 26 Buyers (Hotels/Resorts) in Boracay joined the exhibit.

The market linking activity was able to generate initial sales amounting to P 866. 872, of which P79,286 in cash sales, and P 787,086 in booked orders.

DTI Aklan Provincial Director Ma. Carmen Iturralde encouraged the tourism establishments in Boracay to source their requirements locally.

“We have a lot of local producers for your establishment’s needs, local procurement is not just helping our local communities but we also help our environment, as we reduce emissions and energy use when we source our supply nearby”.

“This year’s Negosyo Link is a success with the sales generated and market linkages established. For next year’s Negosyo Link, we will do our best effort to bring in more suppliers to serve the needs of our establishment here in Boracay, and to offer more market for our local MSMEs,” Iturralde added.