Department of Trade and Industry Region XI Director Ma. Belenda Q. Ambi disclosed on Wednesday that the agency will be inviting around 10 South Korean experts in the food processing industry to come to Davao City to relay their knowledge and technologies to local small and micro enterprises (SMEs).
During the Habi at Kape media forum at Abreeza Mall, Davao City, Ambi said these experts will be coming this May ahead of their participation to International Food Expo in Manila.
According to the regional director, in their recent meeting with South Korean Fair Trade Commission, they learned that these nationals are known for their expertise on food processing.
“What we’re planning is to bring in big food processors to visit Davao and then evaluate the food processing capacity natin and then partner not only in terms of trading but in terms of technology,” said Ambi.
She stressed the importance of technology development when it comes to enhancing the quality of processed food. She added that the South Koreans will also provide assistance on packaging and product name.
“They (South Koreans) will be coming to teach them (SMEs) about technology development and product development as well as food preparation because what is important is the product should conform with the requirements of the buying country,” said the regional director.
At present, Davao Region is exporting Calamansi juice to South Korea citing Alma Uy of Tagum Golden Foods as one of the exporters in the region.
Ambi said DTI will be campaigning to encourage those who want to expand their food processing business because it will also serve as a preparation for the region’s participation in the biggest food expo in South Korea on November.
“We hope to bring our food processors there to expose them to a wider market,” said Ambi.
DTI is looking at generating as many as possible food processors but only those whose business is already registered at Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“FDA (registration) is a requirement for processed food to be able to be exported commercially,” said Ambi.
The regional director hopes to invite 30 or more local SMEs. She added these processors may vary from fruit, meat, and hot chili processors since South Korea posts a huge demand of these products.