HAPPENING NOW: JICA at a Glance with Mitsukoshi Fresh, Feb 22 – 28
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and MITSUKOSHI is holding the JICA at a Glance with Mitsukoshi Fresh from February 22 – 28, 2024, at the Mitsukoshi BGC in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City.
IMAGE from Philippine Primer
This initiative, which included a ribbon-cutting event, took place at 11:00 a.m. yesterday, February 22, is part of JICA’s ongoing support for Japanese private companies, assisting them in expanding their businesses overseas, particularly those with products and technologies aimed at solving problems in developing countries.
Mr. Koshikawa, the Ambassador of Japan to the Philippines, Mr. Sakamoto, the JICA Manila Office Director,
and representatives of BIOTECH Japan, Takara, Inc., and Kuwanosato, Inc. at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
JICA Chief Representative SAKAMOTO Takema, speaking at the “SDGS x Healthy Lifestyle” exhibit at Mitsukoshi – BGC, its first Japanese-inspired lifestyle mall branch in South-East Asia, said “Japanese companies have big ideas and innovations that can mutually benefit the Philippines and Japan. The JICA’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Promotion Program is a great platform for Japanese companies to look for a place to expand their business and for countries like the Philippines to bring the positive social impacts.”
Biotech Japan Corporation’s Low-protein Rice
Kuwanosato, Inc.’s Mulberry Leaf Tea / IMAGES from Philippine Primer
Three Japanese companies under the JICA PPP Promotion Program were at the Mitsukoshi shopping mall at BGC to showcase their unique and high quality products. The three SMEs are BIOTECH Japan, Takara, Inc., and Kuwanosato, Inc. -companies with existing presence in the Philippines through the said JICA program. BIOTECH Japan is a pioneer of low protein rice technology in the Philippines, beneficial for those with chronic kidney diseases while helping local farmers expand their market. Takara, Inc., meanwhile, is popular in Japan for their Black Garlic products. They are now partnering with Mariano Marcos State University for local Black Garlic production seen to boost the local agro-industry. Kuwanosato, Inc., on the other hand, spearheads mulberry cultivation and mulberry leaves tea making in the Philippines which is also to ignite both value-adding agro-industry development and healthier life style.
These exclusive products are readily available for purchase at Mitsukoshi Fresh.
Sakamoto also highlighted that Japanese private sector is known for their brand of innovative ideas with social impacts. By bringing their business to countries like the Philippines, they create a win-win scenario where jobs are created, while helping developing countries address sustainable development challenges.
IMAGES from Philippine Primer
JICA added that the JICA PPP Promotion Program is worth exploring by the Philippine government so more Japanese investors looking to expand business can come in the Philippines.
So far, 87 projects in the Philippines have been selected under this program. JICA’s support for Japanese private companies involves leveraging its network, trust, and expertise with local governments, developed through Official Development Assistance programs. This approach not only aids Japanese businesses in their expansion but also contributes to solving key issues in developing nations.
JICA at a Glance with Mitsukoshi Fresh Overview
- Dates: February 22 – 28, 2024
- Location: Basement 1, Mitsukoshi BGC, situated at the corner of 8th Avenue and 36th Street, BGC, Taguig.
Additional Resources
- Mitsukoshi: For more information about Mitsukoshi, please visit our website.
- JICA: To learn more about JICA and its initiatives, click here.
- Related Articles: Explore more about JICA’s involvement and projects here.
