Recent studies on Swiss and European markets pointed out opportunities for Filipino agricultural products, while offering guidelines for exporters. Experts from the Swiss Import Promotion Programme presented insights into the European Free-Trade Agreement (EFTA) markets’ trade regulations, market-access requirements, and market demand in the “Export Opportunities to Europe” webinar during the National Exporters’ Week-Usapang Exports on December 2. The studies revealed that coconut sugar, dried fruits and fruit purées for fruit-based beverages or as ingredients for dairy, ice cream or confectionery, as well as natural ingredients indispensable as components in food, cosmetics and health products, have high export potential to EFTA and European markets. Authors have pointed out narratives on sustainability, creativity and eco-friendly production as in-sync with European consumer preferences.
Switzerland and the Philippines have reportedly tied-up to promote exports for processed food, natural ingredients and value-added textiles to countries in the EFTA as well as larger Europe. “We are convinced that the Philippines can find the means, talent, and energy to position [itself] in the international stage as a supplier of innovative, attractive and sustainable items, especially in the markets of certified and ecological products,” Ambassador of Switzerland Alain Gaschen said. “I expect to find more Philippine products in our supermarket shelves in the near future.” The project is an example of the close economic cooperation between the two countries, and is anchored on the EFTA-Philippines Free-Trade Agreement implemented on June 1, 2018. The presentation can be viewed on the Facebook pages of the Swiss Embassy and the Export Marketing Bureau of the Department of Trade and Industry.