Manila, Philippines – The Philippine’s renowned Puyat durian took center stage at the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) held in Shanghai from November 5 to 10. Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime Florcruz highlighted in an exclusive interview with China Media Group-Philippines Service (CMG-FS) on November 14 that Chinese consumers warmly welcomed the Philippine durian.   

He noted the long queues of Chinese people eager to savor the sweet and delicious Philippine Puyat durian during the expo.   

Philippine pineapples and bananas also proved popular in the Chinese market due to their high quality and taste. During the CIIE, the Philippine Embassy in China and Goodfarmer, one of China's leading fruit companies, signed an agreement on November 6 to purchase pineapples and bananas from the Philippines.   

The Philippine delegation to the CIIE was composed of government officials from various agencies and businessmen from 16 food companies, showcasing a variety of products, including bananas, durian, pineapples, and coffee.   

Ambassador Florcruz emphasized that the CIIE is a "very important" platform for showcasing Philippine products to Chinese consumers. "It's like a blind date or speed dating. We are like going to a garden in a park. And here, we meet potential suitors, potential partners for SMEs. We want to help them be proud of our products in China," he said.

He added that this was the Philippines' seventh consecutive participation in the CIIE and that the annual sales of the Philippine delegation have been steadily increasing.   

From a sales turnover of $37.5 million in the first CIIE in 2018, it is expected to reach $1.1 billion in 2023.

Ambassador Florcruz underscored that the CIIE has strengthened the relationship between the Philippines and China, enhancing mutual understanding and trust between the two countries. He believes the significance of the CIIE lies not only in the export earnings but also in the numerous benefits of expanding friendship between the two nations.   

Ambassador Florcruz expressed his hope that the Philippines will participate more in the CIIE and other expos, increasing the number of exhibitors in not only agricultural products but also in other product and service areas that Filipinos can be proud of.

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