City, DTI upgrades local businesses with MSME Expo
Over a hundred micro small and medium enterprises (MSME) in Baguio City and Benguet joined this year’s Baguio MSME Expo held Monday, September 25, 2023 at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center from 9AM to 5PM.
The exposition was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry Baguio-Benguet in partnership with the city government of Baguio with the theme, “Upgrade, Upskill and Upsize Small Businesses.”
The Baguio MSME Expo 2023 serves as a platform for MSMEs to showcase their products and services, connect with potential buyers, engage in knowledge sharing, and receive training to enhance their business capabilities.
The day was packed with simultaneous activities being held in the same venue with six components such as the Market Matching dedicated to create valuable connections for local businesses with potential institutional buyers, and opening new markets to drive economic growth.
Another component includes the Supplier’s Forum bringing together suppliers, manufacturers and producers to share insights, industry trends, and best practices to foster knowledge sharing in an aim to elevate local industries and promote collaboration.
The event was bustling with entrepreneurs and buyers due to the trade fair component which is considered the heartbeat of the exposition, where local entrepreneurs showcase their products and services to provide exposure, attract customers and encourage networking to foster a vibrant business ecosystem.
Speakers from several partner government agencies also discussed methods on building back better business via e-commerce and digital marketing in line with the government’s goal to harness digital platforms effectively in expanding reach and customer base among MSMEs.
A packaging and labelling training was also conducted to equip participants with essential skills and insights related to effective product packaging and labelling practices.
“MSMEs are the face of tourism in any locality, the quality of products speaks of our entrepreneurial competency,” City Permits and Licensing Officer Allan Abayao said during the information, education campaign – another component of the event.
His discussion evolved on the procedures and requirements of acquiring a business permit in the city.
Partner agencies include the Department of Information Communication Technology Cordillera, the Department of Labor and Employment Cordillera, Small Business Corporation, the Technical Education Skills Development Authority- Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education, the Cooperative Development Cordillera and the Food and Drugs Authority. – JMPS
