THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Philippine businesses that joined the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) China generated $124 million in sales, more than double the department’s target.
In a statement on Monday, the DTI said the total includes the $108 million worth of signed orders for various agricultural products such as bananas, avocados and oranges.
The remaining $16 million came from direct sales by participants during the five-day exhibit that concluded Nov. 10.
“This is a big win for Filipino companies — especially those in the agriculture industry — as we push for greater promotion of our fresh fruits category in China’s huge market,” Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez was quoted as saying in the statement.
“The figures exceeded our target sales for this participation, which was $50 million. But Philippine products, known to be of quality to foreign buyers, received overwhelming approval at CIIE,” he added.
The Shanghai trade show attracted 57 Philippine companies who occupied 500 square meters at the biggest import trade show in China.
The exhibitors offered snacks, alcoholic beverages, coconut, mango, nuts, chocolate, and coffee; cosmetics, baby care; electronics, automotive products; culinary tours; franchise opportunities and education services.
Next year, the DTI hopes to double the number of participants and the sales value at the expo with a wider variety of fresh fruits to exhibit.
Separately, Mr. Lopez said that the Country Garden Group, one of China’s biggest property developers, has expressed interest in expanding various business operations and exploring investment opportunities in the Philippines.
“More investors, like Country Garden, have expressed their confidence in the country’s economic stability and business environment under the Duterte administration. They wish to partner with us in providing more jobs and opportunities for Filipinos,” Mr. Lopez said.
The DTI noted that the discussions took place on the sidelines of the CIIE.
The company expressed interest in the hotel business and mid-market and affordable residential property, possibly in partnership with Filipino companies.
The DTI said the Hong Kong-listed firm has completed 1,000 residential, business and urban construction projects in China, Malaysia, and Australia, and has sold property to over three million customers. — Janina C. Lim

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