DTI Mimaropa trade fair books P9.3 million in orders as MSME demand rises

DTI Mimaropa trade fair books P9.3 million in orders as MSME demand rises
Mimaropa fair hits P9.3M

Regional producers in Mimaropa are expanding their market reach through a government-led trade fair in Metro Manila. The latest four-day event generated P9.3 million in sales and orders, with many exhibitors selling out before it ended.

Highlights

  • Obra Mimaropa fair generated P9.3 million in sales and orders, marking a 28% year-on-year increase, with most inventory sold out before closing.
  • 100 brands from Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan participated, offering regionally-sourced food products and handcrafted items.
  • Mimaropa's economy grew 4.2% in 2025, below the national average of 4.4%, but strong MSME sales indicate steady demand for regional goods.

Trade fair performance and product mix

As reported by BusinessWorld, citing the Department of Trade and Industry, the third Obra Mimaropa fair posted P9.3 million in sales and orders and recorded 28% year-on-year order growth. The event ran from Oct. 22 to 25 in Makati City and brought together 100 brands offering fruit snacks, regional delicacies, coconut-based products and handcrafted items.

The DTI said a majority of participating businesses sold out their inventory before the four-day fair concluded. DTI Mimaropa Division Chief Lirio T. Maalihan said the products featured at Obra Mimaropa reflect the culture and identity of the region's provinces, Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan.

MSME market access and regional backdrop

Trade fairs organized by the DTI are aimed at connecting micro, small and medium enterprises with potential buyers and broader markets. The push is significant in the Philippines, where about 99% of businesses are MSMEs, many of which still face constraints in financing, networks and market access needed to scale operations.

The fair's sales result comes as the Mimaropa economy grew 4.2% in 2025, slightly below the national average of 4.4%. The outcome suggests consumer demand for regional food and craft products remains a viable channel for small businesses seeking expansion beyond their home provinces.

Our earlier coverage looked at the Philippines expanding access to Malaysia’s halal import market after PhilUlama was recognized by Malaysia’s JAKIM as an approved halal certification body. We noted that having more internationally accepted certifiers can give Philippine exporters wider service options and support broader growth in halal-linked sectors such as food, tourism, and other consumer industries.

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