About Center for international trade expositions and missions (citem)
The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is a government agency that serves as the export promotion arm of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). CITEM is dedicated to developing, nurturing, and promoting globally-competitive small and medium enterprises (SMEs), exporters, designers, and manufacturers by implementing an Integrated Approach to Export Marketing in partnership with other government and private entities.
CITEM's mission is to help Philippine SMEs expand their market reach through international trade fairs, missions, buyer-seller meetings, business matching activities, product development programs, design interventions, capacity-building seminars and workshops. The agency aims to provide a platform for local businesses to showcase their products on a global scale while also facilitating partnerships with foreign buyers.
One of CITEM's core values is innovation. The agency continuously seeks new ways to improve its services by adopting cutting-edge technologies that can enhance the competitiveness of Philippine SMEs. CITEM also collaborates with various stakeholders such as industry associations, academic institutions, research organizations and other government agencies in order to create a more conducive environment for SME growth.
CITEM has been instrumental in promoting Philippine products abroad through its participation in major international trade fairs such as Maison et Objet Paris (France), Ambiente Frankfurt (Germany), Hong Kong Houseware Fair (Hong Kong), Tokyo Gift Show (Japan) among others. These events have provided opportunities for Filipino entrepreneurs to showcase their unique designs and quality products which have gained recognition from foreign buyers.
In addition to participating in international trade fairs abroad, CITEM also organizes local trade shows such as Manila FAME which showcases the best of Philippine design across various sectors including furniture & furnishings; home accents & décor; fashion accessories; holiday décor & gifts; health & wellness products among others. This event has become one of Asia's premier design events attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world.
CITEM's commitment towards promoting Philippine SMEs has not gone unnoticed. The agency has received numerous awards and recognitions for its efforts in export promotion including the Presidential Export Award, the Anvil Award, and the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards among others.
In conclusion, CITEM is a vital partner for Philippine SMEs looking to expand their market reach through international trade fairs, missions, buyer-seller meetings and other export marketing activities. With its innovative approach to export promotion and commitment towards nurturing local businesses, CITEM is poised to play a significant role in driving economic growth in the Philippines.