The five-day fair, organized by the Department of Agrarian Reform, provides the beneficiaries the opportunity to sell their products to a bigger market and interact with consumers and potential investors who may later want to engage in agri-business ventures.
DAR set the event, with the theme "Market Opportunities Toward Globalization," as a joint project with the Philippine Fruit and Vegetables Industries, Inc. in line with the 18th CARP Anniversary celebration.
Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman, here in Cebu to lead yesterday's launching, said that DAR has expected to draw more consumers and investors to the trade fair.
"Since we started this event, the public patronized agri-products from our ARBs because of their quality and durability. We also expect more investors to tie up with our agrarian reform cooperatives. This trade fair could provide new sources of income and job opportunities for agricultural workers," Pangandaman said.
Aside from the farmer beneficiaries of CARP, other participants of the fair are government institutions, non-government organizations and private exhibitors.
Products displayed are fresh and processed vegetable products, processed poultry and meat products, food ingredients and additives, packaging materials, furniture and handicrafts, as well as natural and organic products, among others. - Jasmin R. Uy