Philippines hopeful of bigger exposure in upcoming China trade expo

NANNING, China – The Philippines is hopeful it can get more space at the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai in November to accommodate all interested exhibitors following the country’s participation in the 15th China-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Expo (CAEXPO).

Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. chairman emeritus Francis Chua said on the sidelines of the 15th CAEXPO the country remains positive the participation at the trade event would enable China to see the Filipinos are capable, have the right products and deserve to be given more space at the CIIE.

“We hope that once the Chinese recognize the capability of the Philippines in putting up this booth in attending this particular expo, they may realize there is a big potential from the Philippines and hopefully, we might get some more (space). We remain hopeful,” he said.

The Philippines which has 70 exhibitors with products covering home and fashion, food, as well as health services at the 15th CAEXPO, is aiming to generate at least $26 million worth of export sales from the event.

Chua said the country has secured almost 400 square meters for the display of Philippine products at the CIIE.

Trade Undersecretary Nora Terrado said earlier the space given to the Philippines at CIIE could accommodate only 40 to 60 exhibitors out of 150 that expressed interest.

For the rest of interested participants that cannot be accommodated at the CIIE, she said the government intends to hold an investment forum.

The country was initially given only two booths out of the requested 150.

Chua said while potential Philippine exhibitors were told they could pay for the participation at the CIIE until the end of June, exhibitors from other countries already paid in February and so, there was not enough space left.

Terrado has also said there is strong interest to participate in CIIE because it is the first time such event is being held.

Hosted by the Ministry of Commerce of China, the CIIE is slated on Nov. 5 to 10 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Through the CIIE, China wants to strengthen its trade relations with other countries.

The 15th CAEXPO, meanwhile, which opened yesterday and will run until Sept.15 at the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center in Guangxi, aims to advance the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, as well as promote stronger trade relations between China and the 10 members of the bloc.