PH eyed to become Japan’s fifth largest furniture exporter by 2019
In line with the growing bilateral trade relations between Japan and the Philippines, the Japan Management Association (JMA) signed a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Trade and Industry- Center for International Trade and Missions (DTI-CITEM) formalizing its support towards Philippines’ home and lifestyle, and food sectors.
From Left to Right: Japan Management Association (JMA) representative Noriyasu Kamioki and their affiliate, Ikuzo Abeno, the chairman of Asia Furniture Forum, DTI-CITEM’s Executive Director Clayton Tugonon, along with DTI’s Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC) Assistant Secretary Maria Cynthia Ricafort and Ma. Bernardita A. Mathay, FTSC commercial counselor in Tokyo, Japan.
“We are glad that DTI-CITEM, through Manila FAME, has been instrumental in making another milestone towards improving the trade relation between Japan and the Philippine. This partnership with JMA is a big boost to our micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) given that Japan is the top export destination for our local products,” said Tugonon.
During the MOU signing, Abeno said he is expecting the Philippines to become the “fifth largest furniture importer to Japan after two years”. As of 2016, the Philippines ranks eighth among the furniture importers in Japan.
Abeno is the president of the Japan Furniture Manufacturers and Importers Association, which is the biggest furniture importer organization in Japan. He is also the also the chairman of the Asia Furniture Forum (AFF) and the Chief Executive Officer of Tokyo Furniture Research Co. Ltd.
“Given the quality of Philippine products, Japanese buyers are interested in pursuing a long-term partnership that will make it easier for our countrymen and Philippine companies to explore new trade opportunities,” said Abeno in a seminar about approaching the Japanese market at Manila FAME.
“To intensify promotions of the Philippine furniture and furnishings, home décor, gifts and other home and lifestyle products in Japan, [both parties look towards] increase attendance of Japanese buyers in CITEM signature events which will strengthen business relations, promote economic cooperation among the enterprises of the Philippines and Japan,” read the MOU.
Source: Manila Fame PR
