DTI to Launch More Trade Fairs in 2026 to Boost MSME Growth

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is gearing up for a major expansion of its national trade fair program in 2026 as part of its push to accelerate the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Instead of the usual two to four national events per year, DTI is targeting at least 13 large‑scale trade fairs to give local entrepreneurs greater exposure and market access.

Speaking at the Mindanao leg of the Usapang Budget Natin forum on February 10 in Koronadal City, DTI Assistant Secretary Kristian Ablan said the expanded lineup could benefit around 2,000 MSMEs nationwide. He added that these fairs have the potential to generate up to ₱700 million in sales and business opportunities.

“Ang mission namin sa Department of Trade and Industry ay maka‑graduate kayo sa partikular ninyong tier,” Ablan said, reaffirming DTI’s commitment to help MSMEs progress—from micro to small, small to medium, and medium to large enterprises.

DTI officially kicked off its 2026 trade fair series with the National Trade Fair at SM Megamall held from February 18 to 22.

The agency also lined up a full-year calendar of events, including:

  • National Food Fair (March)
  • National Arts and Crafts Fair (April)
  • Home Décor and Furniture Fair (May)
  • Cosmobeauté Beauty Trade Show (June)
  • Wedding Fair (June)
  • National Trade Fair (July)
  • Coconut Philippines Trade Fair (August)
  • Malikhaing Pinoy Creative Expo (September)
  • Arts and Crafts Fair (October)
  • National Food Fair (November)
  • Christmas Village Fair (December)

DTI is also preparing for its participation in Cosmoprof Asia in Hong Kong this November.

Asec. Ablan encouraged MSMEs interested in joining national trade fairs to first participate in regional fairs organized by DTI field offices to build experience and readiness.

Via PIA | Industry Daily Observer

(Visited 9 times, 1 visits today)