Where Innovation Meets Sustainability
The Sustainability Solutions Exchange (SSX) is the latest flagship initiative of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM)—a platform designed to empower MSMEs on their journey toward a circular economy while reinforcing the Philippines' commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
SSX serves as a dynamic hub for transformation, bringing together industry pioneers, sustainability advocates, and forward-thinking businesses through: An immersive exhibition spotlighting cutting-edge sustainable solutions and innovations. Business matching & pitching sessions that foster high-impact collaborations. A thought-provoking conference where global experts share insights on sustainable consumption and production for the Philippine food industry.
For the first time ever, SSX will take center stage as a physical event on May 22-24, 2025, at the Sustainability Hall (Hall D) within IFEX Philippines, World Trade Center Metro Manila—offering an unparalleled experience in sustainability-driven trade and innovation.
Be part of the movement. Shape the future of sustainability.
Exhibition
Discover groundbreaking sustainable solutions in food production.
Matching & Pitching
Connect with key decision-makers in the industry.
Conference
Gain insights from global and local sustainability experts.
Event Highlights & Schedule
Join Industry Leaders in a 2-Day Sustainability Conference
01:00 PM - 01:10 PM
WELCOME REMARKS
01:15 PM - 01:25 PM
OPENING REMARKS
Introduction of CITEM and overview of SSX with 2022 highlights.
01:30 PM - 01:45 PM
KEYNOTE MESSAGE
Overview of Philippine government’s commitment to promoting sustainability, responsible consumption and production for the food sector, and the role of businesses and consumers in the transition to circularity.
01:50 PM - 02:05 PM
Keynote Message by European Union (EU)
Introduction of the EU-Philippines partnership on the green economy, highlighting collaborative initiatives with CITEM topromote sustainable trade and industry practices. It will also feature the launch and promotion of the Green Economy website, serving as a key platform for advancing sustainability efforts in the country.
02:10 PM - 02:55 PM
Transforming our World: 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
The global community's progress for 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
03:00 PM - 03:45 PM
Major Strides: The Philippines’ Efforts Toward Food Sustainability This session will spotlight measures taken
This session will spotlight measures taken to promote food sustainability in the country in accordance with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) and Ambisyon Natin 2040, specifically for SGD 12 – Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) initiatives.
03:45 PM - 04:00 PM
COFFEE BREAK
04:05 PM - 05:05 PM
Attaining a Circular Food Economy: Challenges and Opportunities This session will explore key challenges
This session will explore key challenges and opportunities in transforming the Philippine food industry into a moresustainable and circular economy. Covering critical sectors such as agriculture, food production, nutrition, packaging ,and waste management, the discussion will provide insights into policy gaps, industry innovations, and scalable solutions. The session will also feature a data-driven presentation on the current landscape, highlighting key obstacles and emerging opportunities that can drive the transition to a circular food system.
05:10 PM - 05:30 PM
Day 1 Synthesis – What's Next for the Philippine Food Industry?
Key points of Day 1 discussions and what businesses and consumers will expect for Day 2.
9:00 AM - 9:15 AM
Day 1 Recap & Day 2 Overview
Recap of Day 1 and overview of Day 2 program of activities.
9:20 AM - 10:20 AM
Roles in Circularity: A Guide for Businesses and Consumers
This session explores the impact of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act on businesses, focusing on compliance, waste reduction, and circular economy strategies. Discussion will also cover how EPR reshapes corporate sustainability and promotes responsible waste management in the food industry.
10:25 AM - 11:25 AM
Sustainability as Foundation: Innovative Strategies for Food Businesses
This session will highlight global trends on sustainability and regulations to identify ways for SMEs to adapt to the changing landscape.
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
LUNCH BREAK
BUSINESS TRACK
01:00 PM - 01:45 PM
Financing the Future: EnablingBusinesses to Reach their Sustainability Goals
Discover key green financing opportunities, investment programs, and strategic approaches for businesses seeking to secure funding for their transition to a sustainable food system.
CONSUMER
TRACK
1:00 PM – 2:00 Pm
Meeting the Standard: Compliance with Environmental Laws and Regulations
The session will emphasize the need to comply with environmental policies and establish ways consumers can help in these efforts. Community leaders and LGU representatives will discuss the best practices toeffectively meet the sustainability goals.
BUSINESS TRACK
1:50 PM – 2:50 PM
Embracing Transformative, Climate-Smart Food Systems
Explore the ecological balance of food, mitigate sourcing risks, and leverage green technologies and sustainable farming. Learn practical, cost-effective strategies to enhance efficiency, resilience, and market competitiveness in aclimate-smart food system.
CONSUMER TRACK
2:05 PM – 2:50 PM
Conscious Consumerism andSustainable Dieting: Steps Toward Sustainable Living
This session will discuss the shifting paradigm ofconsumers on diet and lifestyle, and identify new ways to live a safe, healthy and sustainable future.
02:50 PM - 03:05 PM
COFFEE BREAK
BUSINESS TRACK
3:10 PM – 3:55 PM
Fresh Perspectives on Sustainable Packaging
This session will examine the latest trends and technological advancements in sustainable packaging solutions. Participants will gain insights into eco-friendly alternatives that enhance product value, reduce waste, and ensure compliance with evolving consumer and regulatory demands.
CONSUMER TRACK
3:10 PM – 3:55 PM
Transformative Approaches to Food Waste Management
This session will focus on the impact of waste and best practices to prevent, minimize and manage plastic andfood waste from households to communities.
BUSINESS TRACK
4:00 PM – 4:45 PM
Standard Setting: Identifying Social Responsibilities in the Food Industry
This session will discuss measures to strike a balance between food security and sustainable development identifying effective systems and tools to improve value chain efficiency.
CONSUMER TRACK
4:00 PM – 4:45 PM
Taking Action: Social Enterprises on Consumer Education and Engagement
TThe session will establish responsibilities of social enterprises, as well as identify steps they can take to engage and educate their consumers.
BUSINESS TRACK
4:50 PM – 5:50 PM
The Case for a Greener Future
The session will justify the pursuit of sustainability, ande stablish the advantages of compliance, certifications and market access.
CONSUMER TRACK
5:00 PM – 5:15 PM
Day 2 Synthesis for Consumer Track and Closing Remarks
BUSINESS TRACK
