A booth at TuttoFood Milano showcasing coconut-based products from the Philippines. The booth features a large banner labeled 'COCONUT Philippines' with coconut imagery. Several attendees engage with exhibitors and examine various coconut products displayed on shelves, with other international booths visible in the background.

The Philippines secured more than USD 8.13 million in confirmed and potential sales from range and quality coconut-based food products during its recent debut at TuttoFood Milano, one of the most prestigious international platforms for the agrifood industry.

These coconut-based products, such as coconut oil, virgin coconut oil, coconut flour, beverages, and specialty food items, accounted for USD 2.25 million of total projected sales, highlighting sustained international demand for premium Philippine coconut offerings.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque said that this outcome affirms the country’s strategic push into the European market.

“Our first successful participation at TuttoFood Milano clearly demonstrates how Filipino exporters can seize global opportunities. By providing the right platform, we empower them to connect with international buyers, gain critical market insights, and secure immediate and long-term export deals, thereby elevating the Philippines’ reputation as a reliable source of high-quality, sustainable food products,” DTI Secretary Roque added. 

Scenes from the Philippine booth at TuttoFood Milano featuring coconut-based products. The image is divided into three sections: a man in a blue striped shirt stands beside a display of food items including grains and coconut products; two women converse over drinks and snacks at a small round table; and two individuals review something on their devices while seated at another table with food and beverages.

The mission also opened potential investment and technical partnerships, with the Philippine delegation engaging with 102 new potential business partners. Three exhibitors are now in advanced discussions with potential partners across Europe, the Middle East, and West Asia.

Ahead of the event, nine companies received pre-event coaching and on-site support to enhance their export strategies. They also joined trendspotting forums and networking sessions, where they gained insights into European consumer preferences, sustainability practices, and regulatory requirements.

For the participating entrepreneurs, the experience provided crucial market intelligence.

“It has provided valuable insights that will shape our future strategy – from refining our product offering and enhancing our packaging to adopting more sustainable and efficient ways of working,” said Maureen Pasciolco, an executive of Pasciolco Agri Ventures.

Meanwhile, Allison Jean Bautista of Cocoplus Aquarian Development Corp. added that the fair expanded their business outlook. 

“The experience has not only enhanced our knowledge and expertise but also opened up new avenues for growth and collaboration.”

The Philippine participation was led by the DTI-EMB, in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Paris, the International Trade Centre’s ARISE Plus Philippines Project, and the Philippine Coconut Authority.

Other participating companies included Bahaghari Global Good Inc., Cattleya & Rose Gourmet Foods Trading, Fruits of Life, Inc., Good Sense Food and Juices Corp., Sandpiper Spices and Condiments Corp., Soyuz Foods International Inc., and Wellnesscare Int’l Corp.

To learn more about Philippine exports, email [email protected] or visit www.tradelinephilippines.dti.gov.ph. ♦

Date of Release: 27 July 2025