DAVAO — Davao Region's agricultural products have made a powerful impression in the Chinese market, generating an initial P3.41 billion in sales and business opportunities at the 23rd China-ASEAN Expo 2026. The five-day event, held from September 17 to 21 at the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center, showcased the region's finest produce to one of the world's largest agricultural markets.
A Strong Showing for Davao Enterprises
Six agribusiness enterprises from Davao Region participated in the expo, displaying a diverse range of products that highlighted the region's agricultural strength. The delegation included KF Nutri-Foods International Inc., Raspina Tropical Fruits Inc., Engseng Food Products, Huanghou Fruits Corp., Maylong Enterprises Corp., and SG Charcoal Copra Trading.
Their offerings spanned fresh and frozen durian, fresh Cavendish banana, banana chips, processed durian and mango products, banana-based items, and coconut charcoal. This variety demonstrated the depth of Davao's agri-processing capabilities, from raw commodities to value-added goods. Buyers from across China and ASEAN took notice.
The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region, through its Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division, supported the participation. Regional Executive Director Macario Gonzaga emphasized that China represents a significant market for agricultural products, and bringing local goods there allows enterprises to establish linkages and explore business opportunities.
Breaking Down the Numbers
The initial sales report painted an encouraging picture of the expo's impact. Participating enterprises recorded P1.54 million in retail sales, P32.13 million in booked sales, and P3.38 billion in sales still under negotiation. Together, these figures amount to P3.41 billion in total initial sales and business opportunities.
The government invested P1.98 million to support participation and staff expenses. Based on the reported figures, this translates to approximately P1,725 in sales and business opportunities for every P1 invested by the government. The return on investment underscores the value of international trade platforms in opening doors for local farmers and enterprises.
Opening Doors to Global Markets
CAEXPO serves as a major platform for economic and trade engagement between China and ASEAN Member States. For Davao Region, participation goes beyond simply selling products. It strengthens market linkages, introduces local brands to international buyers, and creates pathways for long-term trade partnerships.
The negotiations still underway represent future contracts that could sustain demand for months or years. These pending deals could bring recurring income to farmers and agribusinesses across the region. The initial success validates the strategy of bringing Davao's products directly to global buyers rather than waiting for them to come.
Strengthening Philippine Agriculture
More than opening doors to international markets, these platforms bring Philippine agriculture closer to the world. They create new opportunities for farmers and agribusinesses, expand market access, and strengthen the country's position as a competitive source of quality agricultural products. The Davao Region's performance at CAEXPO 2026 is a testament to that potential.
The Department of Agriculture continues to support such initiatives, recognizing that international expos are essential for growth. By connecting local producers with global buyers, the government helps transform agricultural productivity into economic prosperity. The P3.41 billion in initial sales shows what is possible when Davao's finest reach the right audience.
