DTI showcases coconut industry at trade fair

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Bureau of Marketing and Development Promotions Office (BMDPO), showcased the Philippine coconut industry at the first COCONUTPhilippines Trade Fair from December 2 to 4.

Over 90 exhibitors from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao displayed products like coconut oil, sugar, coir, charcoal, food, drinks, cosmetics, and eco-friendly packaging. The event also launched the COCONUTPhilippines brand to boost global recognition of local coconut products.

Organized in partnership with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and other stakeholders, the fair supports the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), which aims to uplift coconut farmers through income diversification, market expansion, and poverty reduction.

The event opened with the lighting of a coconut-themed Christmas tree and introduced mascots CocoMania Buko and CocoMania Niyog. PCA Administrator Dr. Dexter Buted emphasized the importance of collaboration in implementing CFIDP.

 The CFIDP represents our commitment to empowering farmers and entrepreneurs through a unified, multi-sectoral approach,  said Dr. Buted.

The fair also featured business matching, product launches, and direct selling, marking a significant step toward solidifying the Philippines’ position as a leader in sustainable coconut products./ JOB]