Markets tapped by Cebu still have huge room for growth

CEBU, Philippines - Although the export sector is partly down, Cebuano businessmen still have a wider niche of growth opportunities to take advantage of, an exhibit organizer said.

Global-Link MP Events International Inc. Chief Executive Officer Patrick Lawrence Tan said in an interview that the province has a strong potential for growth.

“Cebu is a unique and exciting place. The future is very bright. Cebu is really a place worth investing of time, effort and money,” he said.

While the United States and Europe as the two major markets for exports are currently experiencing setbacks, he added that Cebu remains as an export hub of the country.

He further advised Cebuano exporters to re-evaluate the market and recommended the domestic market as their best and easiest growth area despite the international crisis. 

“It is not necessary to go out. Sell locally and be successful,” he continued.

Citing that other industries such as furniture, furnishing and gift industries are also retracting, he said that there are still a lot that businessmen can take advantage such as the manufacturing sector and the booming tourism industry.

“There is so much growth potential. It is not a market left untapped. It is already tapped but it can still grow. You are just at the tip of the iceberg,” Tan noted.

He added that various programs like the recent Manufacturing Technology Cebu 2012 wherein Cebu manufacturers can sell could help promote internal trade and business opportunities.

MTC concentrates on the latest products and technologies critical for the expansion and growth of the manufacturing sector.

He said that this year’s event is more printing-based compared to last year which was food-based since the printing industry is projected to be growing tremendously.

He then described the business potential in such industry as “humongous”.

Although he cited that Cebu has a low growth and less demand for printing industry, he added that the province can still cope with its high technological capacities.

He also considered Cebuano businessmen as the most dynamic type of entrepreneurs who give more weight on the value for money.

Serving as a multi-sectoral event and a one-stop shop, MTC is participated by 250 companies representing products and services from 18 countries.

“It aims to supply the key of foundation for future clients while exhibitors will get a feel of the market. We serve as the conduit between them and the buyer,” he stated.

The technology show, Tan noted, had a very good turn-out on its first day since it was well-attended by students and business players. 

He said that this year’s MTC is expected to have a 30% growth on the number of trade visitors compared on 2011. 

The show will be open to visitors and trade buyers from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on July 19 & 20, and 10:00am – 5:00pm on July 21.

Dubbed as the Industrial Machinery, Factory Automation, Hardware Products, Material Handling, Welding Technology & Accessories Exhibition, MTC’s 16th installment will be in fusion with new supplements to the brand that will include Agritech, Cebu Food Expo, Cebu Travel Expo, Metal, Hardware and Woodmach, Plastics & Packaging, Print & Label and The T.O.P.S Show Cebu plus a special feature entitled Furniture & Furnishing Festival.  (FREEMAN)