DTI eyes stronger MSME gains from trade fairs

Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!

Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.

Visit Suniway.ph to learn

February 22, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is aiming to achieve higher sales from trade fairs this year as part of efforts to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque told reporters during the opening of the 2026 National Trade Fair that the DTI wants to see higher sales generated by MSMEs from trade fairs this year.

Last year, the DTI conducted 13 trade fairs, which generated around P665 million in sales.

Over 1,700 MSMEs benefited from the trade fairs conducted by the DTI last year.

For this year, Roque said the DTI is looking to have at least 15 trade fairs.

She said the DTI also wants to see more MSMEs take part in trade fairs this year.

“The President now is really pushing for the growth of MSMEs,” she said.

The 2026 National Trade Fair is being held until Feb. 22, at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall.

This year’s trade fair features eco-friendly, design-driven and high-value Filipino products of 300 exhibitors ready to cater to the needs of retailers, distributors, resellers, exporters and general consumers.

The fair also features a Philippine Sustainability Pavilion, showcasing furniture, textiles, fashion and handicrafts made from coconut-based materials, engineered bamboo, natural fibers, plant-based dyes and native grasses sourced from regions across the country.