Optimism Surrounds Philippine Food Exports

During the “Outbound Business Matching Mission” (OBMM) organized by the Philippines’ Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Dubai, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand Ver and Federation of UAE Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) Secretary General Humaid Mohamed Ben Salem expressed optimism about the potential growth of food exports from the Philippines to the UAE and beyond. The FCCI highlighted the opportunities for increased food imports from the Philippines and greater foreign direct investments in food production. The 14 Philippine food exporters participating in the OBMM, primarily focusing on plant-based products, recently visited Saudi Arabia before attending the “Gulfood” event in Dubai. DTI-EMB Director Bianca Pearl Sykimte noted the increasing demand for plant-based and alternative food products in the UAE and the GCC region, highlighting the responsiveness of Philippine manufacturers to these market trends. Ambassador Ver encouraged Philippine exporters to leverage the UAE’s position as a hub for international events and gatherings. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral trade relations, including the potential signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the Philippines and the UAE. FCCI Secretary General Salem highlighted the importance of supply chain connectivity and infrastructure in furthering economic cooperation between the two countries. Both officials expressed optimism about the untapped potential for increased trade and investment between the Philippines and the UAE.