DTI Aklan opens global opportunities for Aklanon MSMEs

By: Shy Patoza

KALIBO, AKLAN (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Aklan transformed global partnerships into concrete opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs as Aklanon Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) brought their products to the international stage at IFEX Philippines 2026.

The event served as a platform for local producers to connect with global buyers, distributors, and industry networks, opening new channels for Aklan-made goods.

Leading Aklan’s delegation were two homegrown brands, Prime Bread & Butter Bakeshop, Corp., and Sunshine Breadmart.

Their participation highlighted the creativity, quality, and market readiness of Aklan products, placing the province’s unique flavors and craftsmanship before international audiences.

Their presence reinforced the growing competitiveness of Filipino MSMEs in the global marketplace.

DTI Western Visayas OIC-Assistant Regional Director and DTI Aklan Concurrent Provincial Director Romel L. Amihan emphasized the agency’s mandate in creating these opportunities.

“The DTI is a national agency mandated primarily to assist and develop MSMEs and the business sector in general. It strengthens global partnerships by connecting local producers and MSMEs to international markets, buyers, and various industry networks, and it supports them through trade fairs, business matching activities, and export development programs,” he said.

Amihan underscored the significance of IFEX Philippines as a gateway to export growth.

“Two of our local producers joined IFEX Philippines 2026, and through this participation, they strengthened their presence not only in the national setting but also in the global export market,” he said.

This exposure enabled Aklanon products to gain greater visibility, build credibility among international buyers, and expand their reach beyond domestic markets.

Product development and packaging also played a vital role in the success of Aklan exhibitors.

Amihan noted that DTI continuously assists MSMEs in improving both food and non-food products, including compliance with FDA labeling requirements that provide clear information on ingredients, expiration dates, manufacturing dates, and producer details.

“Aklan products stand out because they are unique, incorporating local resources and culture, giving them strong market potential,” he added.

Beyond immediate sales, DTI evaluates the success of trade fair participation through the quality of business connections established.

The agency monitors buyer inquiries, prospective distributor partnerships, and business leads generated during the event.

Account officers then conduct follow-through activities, including sharing market intelligence, facilitating product development assistance, and coordinating with export support agencies to help convert leads into actual export transactions.

To sustain the momentum generated at IFEX Philippines 2026, DTI will continue strengthening collaboration between the government and the private sector.

“We will strengthen engagement to follow up on buyer inquiries and provide the support they need. This will solidify partnerships and help convert leads into actual export transactions,” Amihan said.

He also highlighted ongoing initiatives focused on food safety, branding, packaging, and market positioning to ensure that Aklanon products remain competitive and relevant in international markets.

Quality, according to Amihan, remains central to DTI’s export development strategy.

“We will continue developing our products because quality drives opportunities and sales,” he said.

Through continuous capacity-building, design enhancement, and compliance support, DTI equips Aklanon MSMEs with the tools and knowledge necessary to meet international standards and respond to evolving consumer demands.

Amihan concluded with an inspiring message for aspiring entrepreneurs and the youth.

“Dream beyond the local market, believe it is possible, and know that we can compete globally. To our youth, start small, start confidently, and think globally. Never underestimate your ideas or the power of thinking. This will greatly contribute to our economic growth because I believe Aklan products will always have a place in the international market,” Amihan shared.

With DTI Aklan’s continued support and commitment to export development, more Aklanon MSMEs are gaining access to global opportunities, strengthening local industries, and showcasing the best of Aklan to the world. (AGP/SQP/PIA Aklan with reports from John Kenneth Adrimesin/DOLE-GIP)