Jetro offers to help Phl firms sell Japan goods

MANILA, Philippines - The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) is willing to provide support to Filipino firms interested in the distribution of Japanese food products here as Japan seeks to increase exports.

JETRO Manila executive director Tomohiro Ando told reporters the agency is implementing a program that would involve providing subsidy to foreign firms interested in the purchase and distribution of Japanese products in their respective countries.

Filipino firms are among those targeted by the JETRO for the program as the country is one of Japan’s biggest markets particularly for food exports.

The Philippines is currently the ninth or 10th largest destination of Japanese food, agriculture and fishery exports in the world.

“The ranking is higher than major European countries for example France and Germany which are major importing countries… so it (Philippines) is becoming more significant for us as a destination of agriculture, fishery and food products,” Ando said.

Through the program, the JETRO would shoulder or pay part of the airfare and accommodation in Japan for business matching activities of firms looking to import and distribute Japanese products.

While the JETRO normally provides support to one to three potential importers, Ando said the number of firms that could avail of the program would depend on how many are able to meet the requirements set by the agency.

“Of course we have some ceiling of budget, but this budget is not only for Filipino companies but also (other) buyers abroad. If we can find more promising buyers from the Philippines, we can get more from that budget,” Ando said.

To qualify for the program, firms have to apply with the JETRO.

“Basically, we have to request potential importer to provide business experience in the Philippines and their enthusiasm, knowledge and capability in international business,” Ando said.

The JETRO works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world.

The program is being implemented as Japan wants to promote the growth of its exports.