Osaka: Philippine exporters recorded USD1.72 million (PHP101.34 million) in sales during the FABEX Kansai 2025 trade fair in Japan, showcasing commercial food ingredients, equipment, and containers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) highlighted the increasing demand for local coconut products, emphasizing the country's growing presence in the high-value industry. The event saw participation from 25 Philippine exporters who presented a range of plant-based beverages, natural sweeteners, specialty oils, and other coconut-based ingredients that align with Japan's preference for plant-based options.

The DTI noted that the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Osaka, along with the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau, organized the participation of these exporters in the event held from November 26-28, 2025. The initiative was supported by DTI Laguna and Region 4-A through the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan. In preparation for the event, the Philippine delegation engaged in market scoping and retail scans to analyze pricing, packaging, consumer behavior, and competitor positioning.

The delegation also visited Cocowell's Sari-Sari Store, a specialty shop in Osaka, to gain insights into the marketing and purchasing dynamics of Philippine coconut products within Japan's wellness-focused retail environment. Commercial Counsellor Michael Alfred Ignacio remarked that FABEX Kansai 2025 demonstrated the competitiveness of Philippine exporters and Japan's confidence in the Philippine coconut supply and innovation, thereby strengthening the long-term positioning in the Japanese market and paving the way for sustainable commercial growth.