MR. D.I.Y. Philippines representative Ms. Rosemarie Jaspe engages in a business matching session with Cebu-based MSME owner Ms. Jomaima Basmayor. The discussion focuses on locally crafted products, including wooden utensils, handwoven baskets, and fashion accessories. Various handmade items are displayed on the table, showcasing the craftsmanship of Cebuano enterprises. This session is part of the DTI-led initiative to connect local suppliers with international buyers, fostering business opportunities and market expansion.
In photo: MR. D.I.Y. Philippines representative Ms. Rosemarie Jaspe engages in a business matching session with  Cebu-based micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME), Ms. Jomaima Basmayor, discussing locally crafted products such as wooden utensils, handwoven baskets, and fashion accessories.

Cebu City, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) successfully connected 16 Cebu-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with MR. D.I.Y. Malaysia, a leading home improvement retailer, during a business-to-business (B2B) market matching session on February 14. This initiative underscores the DTI’s commitment to boosting local businesses by connecting them with international buyers and expanding their market reach.

The session was a collaborative effort between the Philippine Trade and Investment Center-Kuala Lumpur (PTIC-KL), DTI Cebu, MR. D.I.Y. Malaysia, and Cebu GTH Foundation, Inc. Its primary goal is to provide local MSMEs with market exposure and business-matching opportunities with international buyers.

The Cebu-based MSMEs seeking supplier partnerships with MR. D.I.Y. presented products across various categories, including household and furnishings, stationery and sports, toys and gifts, fashion accessories, and cosmetics. This provided participating MSMEs with a valuable platform to showcase their products, craftsmanship, and market potential to MR. D.I.Y representatives. Each MSME had the opportunity to directly engage with the company representatives, discuss business requirements, and explore potential collaborations.

MR. D.I.Y. was represented by Ms. Faith Thong, Senior Purchasing Manager of MR. D.I.Y. Malaysia, along with Ms. Katherine Dumindin and Ms. Rosemarie Jaspe of MR. D.I.Y. Philippines. The team meticulously evaluated each product based on quality, pricing, sustainability, and overall marketability. Product samples were reviewed to allow firsthand assessment of unique features.

Following the session, participating MSMEs submitted detailed proposals outlining their manufacturing capabilities, product innovations, and potential adjustments to meet MR. D.I.Y.’s market needs.

Ms. Jomaima Basmayor, proprietor of Dierde Export Trading, one of the participating entrepreneurs, expressed optimism about the opportunity.

“If this partnership pushes through, we will no longer struggle to find buyers and market our products elsewhere. However, our primary challenge now is producing bulk quantities to meet the demand. Since the orders are in large volumes for distribution across multiple branches, this presents a challenge,” she said.

The PTIC-KL played a vital role in linking MR. D.I.Y. Malaysia with DTI Cebu and ensuring the participation of high-potential local suppliers. Commercial Counsellor Norjamin Delos Reyes stated the PTIC-KL, as the DTI’s representative office in Malaysia, is committed to connecting Philippine MSMEs with international retailers, fostering sustainable business opportunities that drive long-term growth.

DTI Cebu OIC-Provincial Director Marivic Aguilar reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting local MSMEs in accessing international markets.

“We are pleased to facilitate these business-matching opportunities that introduce our MSMEs to global buyers like MR. D.I.Y. Malaysia. While Cebu is home to many well-crafted and unique products, we recognize that scaling up production to meet international demand remains a challenge for many entrepreneurs,” Aguilar said.

“That’s why DTI Cebu continues to assist MSMEs in enhancing their production capabilities, improving their competitiveness, and navigating the complexities of international trade,” she added.

This B2B market matching and collaboration between DTI Cebu and MR. D.I.Y. Malaysia is a significant step in strengthening global market access for Cebuano MSMEs, fostering innovation, and driving inclusive economic growth.

MR. D.I.Y. is also set to conduct additional B2B market matching sessions with local MSMEs in Davao, Bicol, and Bohol later this year. ♦

Date of Release: 25 February 2025