Philippines to join world’s first eco-tourism travel mart

CEBU, Philippines — The Philippines is poised to re-introduce its eco-tourism edge to the world market as it joins the world’s first edition eco-tourism travel mart dubbed the International Ecotourism Travel Mart (IETM) from March 29 to April 2, 2023.

The Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) export promotion arm, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), will bring together at least 12 companies from food, home, and lifestyle industries that offer products and services that are sustainable or have strong ecotourism component,

To be held at the ISST Building, James Yen Center in Silang, Cavite, the five-day ecotourism exhibition participation is under CITEM’s Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) program.

In line with CITEM’s direction toward promoting sustainability among businesses, the event aims to create more awareness of the existing market demand for sustainable products and services. It will also help local enterprises to shift toward sustainable consumption and

a production that is aligned with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs) and the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) directive.

“CITEM’s participation in the IETM exhibition highlights its commitment to establish SSX as a reliable content source and product/service sourcing platform for existing and potential stakeholders. We aim to gain valuable industry knowledge and foster networking opportunities with peers and industry experts,” said CITEM Executive Director Edward Fereira.

“By representing SSX, it is also our intention to promote sustainable living practices and connect eco-friendly suppliers with like-minded consumers. By participating in the IETM exhibition and forum, CITEM seeks to establish SSX as a key player in the burgeoning sustainability industry and become the go-to platform for sustainable products and services,” added Fereira.

Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in Home, Fashion, and Lifestyle like ‘Diwatang Maria,’ ‘Craftcha,’ Magwayen Organics, Inc,’ and ‘Oryspa Spa Solutions’ will be in attendance.

For food, on the other hand, ‘Dakila and Supremo,’ ‘Philia Variety Store,’ ‘Japan-Philippines Moringa,’ ‘I’m Oh So Healthy,’ and ‘Cocoplus Aquarian Development Corporation’ will also join the festival.

Sustainable solutions companies ‘Haig and Lee Import Export,’ ‘Evergrocer Zero Waste Online Shop,’ and ‘ResikloMachine Shop’ will also be present.

Under the theme “Embracing Authentic Ecotourism: An Ecotourism Festival,” the first

International Ecotourism Travel Mart will feature local MSMEs engaged in sustainable practices and production.

The event is organized by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Asian Ecotourism Network, and the International School for Sustainable Tourism and connects different stakeholders for knowledge transfer, consulting, marketing, and business development.

IETM will be held annually to bring stakeholders together to showcase products and services that promote ecotourism, green technology, and sustainable practices. The event is also set to enhance the “green consciousness” of featured MSMEs to help them gain further knowledge and awareness through exhibitions and conferences, and provide an avenue for promotional exposure and trade opportunities.

The SSX program is the country’s first sourcing program promoting sustainable goods, practices, resources, and technology. It serves MSMEs across various export sectors that seek to start or continue their journey to a circular economy in support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).