Philippine exporters of durian and banana chips, jewelry, handicrafts and banking essentials, among others, generated over $18 million in export sales at the latest China-Asean Expo (Caexpo) held at the Nanning International Convention & Exhibition Centre in Nanning, Guangxi, China.

The government’s exports promotion arm, Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (Citem) said 12 Philippine enterprises in food and non-food categories presented their wares to the Chinese market.

“Food enterprises showcased durian and banana chips, while non-food companies offered natural remedies, banking essentials, jewelry and handicrafts,” Citem said.

Durian best-selling Phl product

Like in last year’s participation, Citem said fresh durian was hailed as the country’s best-selling product, reflecting “consistent” demand among Chinese buyers “seeking its unique taste and texture.”

Aside from the “strong showing” in export sales, the Philippine delegation to Caexpo 2025 won the acclaim of organizers. It received the Best Organizer of Trade Visitors award during the Caexpo Senior Officials’ Meeting while Puyo Handicrafts, a Cagayan de Oro-based producer of hand-crafted souvenir items and Raya Fiber Imperia, a manufacturer of fabric and other goods from Marinduque, both earned the Caexpo Excellent Design Award.

“The prize is given to enterprises with innovative concepts, aesthetic and cultural value, environmental sustainability, and strong market potential in China and ASEAN countries,” the government’s export promotions arm said.

Deserving of a place in rich markets

Citem executive director Leah Pulido Ocampo said, “This performance attests to Philippine enterprises’ established capabilities, demonstrating that we are deserving of a place in rich markets.”