Exporters anticipate better 2012

CEBU, Philippines - Gifts, Toys, and Houseware (GTH) and fashion accessory exporters are anticipating a better performance this year as recovery in orders was noted in the last few months of 2011.

Cebu Gifts, Toys and Houseware, Foundation Inc. (Cebu-GTH) president Ramir Bonghanoy said that players are crossing their fingers and hoping for a much better year in 2012, also banking on the local market to help boost the export sector amid the unpredictable economic situation of two major markets—United States and Europe.

Although, the players are hoping for an improved business this year, Bonghanoy said “ we remain to be cautious about the market. It’s a harder game for the moment because of competition especially with China and Vietnam.”

However, as Cebu still leads in terms of design coupled with flexible business attitude, Bonghanoy is confident that exporters will be able to fight head-on with the competition this year.

The reason why the organization, with the help of the government through the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is pushing to intensify the adoption, among members, on research and development (R&D) to stay afloat.

“Maybe some players may not agree, but we maintain positive outlook for the year, with the domestic market is activating,” said Bonghanoy adding that the rising demand for export-quality products from the local market including tourists, contributed largely to players’ determination to stay on and keep the industry alive.

Aside from Filipinos and visiting tourists, GTH exporters, as well as fashion accessory makers are also now actively pursuing the Asian market. After-all “everybody is now looking at Asia as the next booming economy in the world.”

India, is also one of the most active markets for GTH and fashion accessory products, Bonghanoy said as well as other countries such as Italy, Netherlands, Germany and Belgium.

While Russia is also a good market to tap, Bonghanoy said most Russian buyers are sourcing their Philippine-made products from a middle-retailer from Netherlands and Belgium. Nevertheless, Bonghanoy said the trend so far is showing improvement.

The advantage of the Philippine products, specifically from Cebu, is it is marketed as “green” products, mostly handmade or handcrafted, which is the global trend now.

“Our ability to use natural raw materials, plus our intricate and unique designs could help us thrive despite the fierce competition,” he said.

Thus, players are urged to invest more on R&D, and marketing intelligence, “it’s just a matter of introducing the product with the right mix and right design, and proper branding.”

With the recent opening of the “Tindahang Pinoy” in Cebu, Bonghanoy hopes that exporters in GTH and fashion accessories, including furniture will be able to sustain its operations, while awaiting the recovery of the global market. (FREEMAN)