The National Exporters’ Week (NEW) 2024 was held from December 2 to 6 at Conrad Manila, Pasay City, highlighting the role of sustainability in shaping the future of Philippine exports. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), the Export Development Council (EDC), and PHILEXPORT, the event aimed to strengthen the country’s position as Southeast Asia’s hub for sustainable manufacturing and services. The week-long program featured forums, training sessions, exhibitions, and dialogues to equip exporters with the knowledge and tools needed to adopt sustainable business practices and remain competitive. The event also emphasized responsible supply chains, ethical sourcing, and innovative production methods as key drivers of long-term industry resilience.
The National Export Congress (NEC) served as the highlight of NEW 2024, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and business stakeholders to discuss sustainability’s impact on exports. The event explored sustainable materials, evolving export regulations, ethical business practices, and market-based strategies to enhance Philippine exports. Special sessions covered the Philippines’ Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), with a focus on maximizing benefits from partnerships with Japan and the European Union. A dedicated session for women-led enterprises under the SheTrades Philippines Hub underscored the importance of inclusivity in trade. Keynote speakers emphasized the need for digitalization, international cooperation, and policy support to navigate the shifting global trade landscape.
Complementing the NEC, the Export Enablers’ Exhibit showcased the contributions of government agencies, financing institutions, startups, and business support organizations that facilitate trade. The exhibit featured free consultations, business mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities for exporters looking to expand their reach. Participants gained insights into compliance with sustainability regulations, access to financial assistance programs, and strategies for tapping into global markets. The exhibit also presented the ARISE Plus Philippines program, which provided practical guidance on EU trade requirements, including food safety regulations and deforestation laws. These initiatives aimed to equip exporters with the necessary tools to thrive in an increasingly sustainability-driven global economy.
NEW 2024 reinforced the Philippine export sector’s commitment to sustainability, competitiveness, and innovation. By fostering collaboration among government agencies, private institutions, and exporters, the event emphasized the importance of responsible business practices in securing long-term economic growth. The discussions and exhibits paved the way for stronger policy recommendations and actionable strategies that align with the Philippine Export Development Plan 2023-2028. As global trade continues to evolve, the insights from this year’s National Exporters’ Week are expected to guide Philippine exporters in adapting to new challenges and opportunities.