The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Capiz, in partnership with the Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), gathered local entrepreneurs for the first-ever “Usapang Exports” Forum in Roxas City last August 15, 2025.
Initiated by 1st District Representative Cong. Howard Guinto, the activity aimed to address key challenges faced by Capiz micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and open doors to global markets.
Capiz MSMEs are known for high-quality products from agri-fisheries, processed foods, specialty coffee, artisanal cacao products, and fruit wines to handicrafts and Capiz shells—many with strong export potential. However, challenges persist, including limited raw material supply to meet international volume requirements and the high capitalization needed to expand production and secure regulatory compliance.
In Capiz, only one MSME is directly exporting and about eight are indirectly exporting. While a few more are export-ready, many remain hesitant due to logistics risks and the comfort of serving local markets.
In her keynote message, DTI Region 6 OIC-Regional Director Ma. Dinda Tamayo encouraged participants to be bold in exploring the export market.
“Natural resources abound, and the drive you have as entrepreneurs cannot be understated. The ball is in your hands. You are the key to make it or unmake it,” she said, stressing that innovation and niche-finding are crucial to success.
EMB specialists presented DTI–EMB support services and programs, export procedures, and the CREATE MORE initiative, along with insights into global market trends and opportunities for fishery products, cacao, and alcoholic beverages – areas where Capiz producers show strong potential.
DTI Capiz OIC-Provincial Director Merian Asas reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting local enterprises through capacity-building, product development, and market access initiatives.
Cong. Guinto emphasized that with the right guidance from both public and private stakeholders, Capiz can position itself as a leader in export-driven growth. (DTI Region 6)
