The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) spearheaded the participation of 12 enterprises showcasing sustainable products and services at the first edition of the International Ecotourism Travel Mart (IETM) in Silang, Cavite from March 29 to April 2, 2023.

IETM held its inaugural edition with the theme "Embracing Authentic Ecotourism: An Ecotourism Festival." CITEM participated through its sourcing program promoting sustainable goods, practices, resources, and technology called Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX). The program serves small, micro, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across various export sectors that seek to start or continue their journey to a circular economy in support of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The participating MSMEs from SSX, by category, include: ‘Diwatang Maria,’ ‘Craftcha,’ 'Magwayen Organics, Inc,' and ‘Oryspa Spa Solutions’ for home, fashion, and lifestyle brands; . ‘Jack's Produce,’ Philia,’ ‘Japan-Philippines Moringa Eco Farm Inc.,’ ‘Innovative Packaging Industry Corporation,’ and ‘Cocoplus Aquarian Development Corporation’ for food brands, and  ‘Güd is Better,’ ‘Evegrocer Zero Waste Online Shop,’ and ‘Resiklo Machine Shop’ under the sector offering sustainable solutions.

"The IETM 2023 has been a productive week of showcasing how sustainable products and services can be adapted to the country’s mainstream and international stage with the Filipino trademark. This event also bridged existing and potential stakeholders of the international market, resulting in exchange of  industry knowledge and forging networks among participants, " said CITEM Deputy Executive Director, Maria Lourdes Mediran.

CITEM, as the trade promotions arm of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), supported the event in line with its SSX program that promotes sustainable practices, resources, and technology to the world’s essential industries.

"This event aligns with the advocacies of SSX to promote sustainable living practices and  connect eco-friendly suppliers with like-minded consumers. For IETM, we are positioning SSX as a key player in the burgeoning sustainability industry and become the go-to platform for sustainable products and services," Mediran added.

The event is organized by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Asian Ecotourism Network, and the International School for Sustainable Tourism to connect different stakeholders for knowledge transfer, consulting, marketing, and business development.

IETM will be held every two years in different host countries to bring stakeholders together to showcase products and services that promote ecotourism, green technology, and sustainable practices. The event is also set to enhance the “green consciousness” of featured MSMEs to help them gain further knowledge and awareness through exhibitions and conferences, and provide an avenue for promotional exposure and trade opportunities.