Commerce Without Borders: A Stronger Future for the Philippines and Italy through Trade and Economic Cooperation

The Philippine Embassy, under the leadership of H.E. Ambassador Nathaniel Imperial, recently hosted a significant event aimed at strengthening economic ties between the Philippines and Italy. The event featured the Philippine Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laureal, Jr., which presented the country’s readiness to expand its export market by supplying high-quality raw materials, such as coconut oil—one of the Philippines' top products.

in the Photo: H.E Nathaniel Imperial and DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

Ms. Katrina Banzon, the DTI attaché, highlighted the Philippines as an increasingly attractive investment destination, emphasizing the robust growth of its economy, which has reached record highs. This economic strength has been recognized through improved international credit ratings, signaling confidence in the country’s future potential.

Dr. Josyline C. Javelosa, Philippine agricultural attaché and FAO Deputy Permanent Representative, underscored the Philippines' leading export agricultural products, including coconut, banana, carrageenan, and mangoes. She stressed the global recognition of the country's renowned Carabao mango, which has yet to be fully introduced in Italian markets, but with growing interest, it may soon make its way to shelves in Italy.

The event, led by the Philippine Ambassador, attracted key representatives from both countries. Prominent Philippine business leaders showcased their products, while Italian guests, including members of the International Chamber of Commerce and the President of CNA Rome Mr. Indra Perera expressed interest in exploring new Filipino products. It also provided a platform for members of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce in Italy, led by President Leopoldo Reyes and Chairman Dennis Carrascoso, to explore opportunities for scaling up imports of Filipino goods, meeting the increasing demand not only from Filipinos in Italy but also from local consumers eager to try new products from the Philippines.

In the photo: PCCI President Leopoldo Reyes, Chairman Dennis Carrascoso, and CNA President Indra Perera engage in a brief discussion on potential collaborations between PCCI and CNA, aimed at creating new opportunities for both organizations and their members.

In the photo: PCCI PRO Benford Fortuna, Sir Gilbert Agbayani, and Dr. Joceyline Javelosa discuss strategies for Filipino business owners in Rome to gain direct access to importation and tariff trade opportunities, aiming to streamline processes and enhance trade connections between the Philippines and Italy.

This event marks a new chapter in trade and economic cooperation between the Philippines and Italy, paving the way for mutual growth and deeper bilateral ties.

In the photo: PCCI members and officers, including President Leopoldo Reyes, Chairman Dennis Carrascoso, Vice President Nestor Manriques, Chief Auditor Ms. Jonima Acevedo, Director Leopoldo Pastorin, PRO Benford Fortuna, Asec. Barry Flores, Ms. Jocelyn Tupino, Mr. Gilbert Agbayani, and Ms. Josephine Nunag, are joined by DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. for a group photo during the cocktail dinner hosted by the Philippine Embassy. This gathering provided a valuable opportunity for key figures to connect and discuss future collaboration.