DTI eyes three-year roadmap to Western Visayas exports

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is planning to roll out a three-year roadmap to help promote Western Visayas products globally, it said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Western Visayas Export Development Roadmap for 2026-2028 includes plans to launch a one-stop-shop and online training for region’s micro, small, and medium enterprises.

The initiative seeks to address smaller firms’ gaps in export readiness while providing them with direct access to international markets.

DTI said it plans to launch a “Western Visayas Global Brand” and a regional export one-stop-shop to help local exporters streamline their operations.

Likewise, it is looking to establish a new e-Export Academy to train business owners in digital marketing and online sales.

“Furthermore, the strategy leverages the Visayas Container Terminal in Iloilo, with a goal to slash regional shipping costs by 15% through consolidated freight services,” the agency said.

The final roadmap will be presented to the Regional Development Council by the middle of the year, the DTI said.

It also noted that each province has products suited for high-value markets, with Aklan’s nito and piña crafts potentially appealing to European and Japanese buyers, while Guimaras is known for its mangoes.

The DTI also sees global demand for Iloilo and Capiz’ premium seafood and organic goods, as well as Antique’s coco-based products and muscovado sugar.

In 2024, Western Visayas’ economy grew by 4.3%, slower than last year’s national level of 5.7%. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz