Handicraft makers hopeful expo can boost RP exports to China

MANILA, Philippines - Handicraft makers are optimistic that the higher-than-projected sales they generated from May 1-12 in the ongoing Shanghai World Expo 2010 could pave the way for the country’s increased share in the China market.

Salvio Valenzuela Jr., executive director of the Philippine Chamber of Handicraft Industries Inc. (PCHI), said 50 to 80 suppliers of handicraft products participating in the six-month exposition until October 31 already incurred sales 20 percent higher than projected during the first 12 days.

Valenzuela said Chinese buyers go for the country’s gift shop items made of indigenous raw materials like capiz and abaca fiber.

“Although sales are lower against the expected global sales, this could be a good indicator of Chinese consumers‚ acceptance of Philippine products. Through the six-month expo we are participating together with DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) and CITEM (Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions), we hope to increase our share in China market,” he noted.

Valenzuela said they look forward to starting collaboration with global importers based in China. 

“We are hoping they would notice the uniqueness of our products,” he stressed.

Valenzuela said local participants, mostly small companies supplying novelty items, occupy a 2,000-square-meter Philippine pavilion in the exposition.

PCHI members offering handicrafts, home decors, gifts and premiums and basketware products, utilize a 78-square-meter space, he said.

The exposition website described the exhibition area as epitome of the Philippines, where visitors can enjoy unique local conditions, customs and art performances inside the pavilion.

Valenzuela said organizers expect to attract 70 million visitors from around the world in the Shanghai expo.

The major trade and economic exposition is held every four years. Japan and Zaragoza, Spain played hosts to the last two events, he added.