Shanghai:The Coconut Philippines Pavilion was inaugurated at the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone Global Hub in Shanghai, China, aiming to increase the presence of Philippine coconut products in the Chinese market. This initiative highlights products such as virgin coconut oil, coconut water, liquor, sap beverages, and handicrafts.
According to Philippines News Agency, Director Maria Asuncion Cruzada of the Finance Service of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) emphasized the goal of aiding Filipino coconut exporters and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in accessing the Chinese market and attracting potential buyers.
Cruzada expressed the importance of this initiative, noting China's vast market potential and expressing hope that Chinese consumers would support Philippine products as the Philippines does with Chinese goods. She reiterated the DTI's commitment to supporting Filipino coconut producers in expanding production and improving farmers' livelihoods.
Philippine Consul General to Shanghai Myca Magnolia Fischer underscored the significance of providing assistance to the country's coconut farmers through continued government support and expanding trade opportunities in China. Fischer highlighted the world-class nature of Philippine products and the desire to share them with Chinese friends, acknowledging the products' diverse applications.
In his remarks, Vice Consul Commercial Jose Ma. "Jojie" Dinsay from the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Shanghai identified the Global Hub as a crucial gateway for international products entering China. Dinsay encouraged Chinese buyers and business partners to explore the various uses and potentials of Philippine coconut products, emphasizing their reliability and quality across sectors such as food and beverage manufacturing, retail, trade, and the wellness industry.