Phl food exporters hit $30 M sales target in Japan

MANILA, Philippines - A Philippine delegation composed of food firms hit its $30 million sales target at a recent food fair held in Japan, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) said.

In a statement, CITEM, which serves as the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) export marketing arm, said the sales were generated during the FOODEX Japan 2013 held from March 5 to 8 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba.

The Philippine delegation created a stronger presence at this year’s FOODEX Japan with sales exceeding the $24 million generated last year.

“Cavendish bananas were the top bestseller at the Philippine pavilion followed by natural fruit fillings, glazes and jams, coconut products, mango products, muscovado sugar, and sliced tuna,” CITEM said.

FOODEX Japan is one of the largest food and beverage trade shows in the Asia Pacific region.

This year’s show attracted more than 70,000 visitors and had over 2,500 exhibitors from 66 countries.

Participating in trade fairs overseas is among the activities being highlighted by the DTI to promote the country’s exports.

In February, Filipino food firms took part in Gulfood 2013 held in Dubai where they generated $53.4 million worth of sales.

Philippine food companies will also be participating in other international fairs this year such as the Anuga food and trade fair in Germany as well as the SEAFEX seafood show in Dubai in United Arab Emirates, among others.

To help promote the country’s products, the CITEM is also organizing trade shows.

Next month, the 9th International Food Exhibition (IFEX) Philippines which serves as Asia’s Ethnic Food and Ingredients Show, will be held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The 9th IFEX, which will showcase Asia’s tropical food and the country’s fresh, processed, Halal-certified as well as organic food, is being organized by the CITEM in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture’s Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Service.