Trade and Industry Secretary Juan B. Santos has urged small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to maximize their business potential by venturing into exports.
The entry of SMEs in the export market will strengthen product diversification strategy and lessen dependence on traditional products for exports growth, he said.
To help the SMEs, Santos said he is reviewing how government can support smaller firms. Among these measures, he said, would involve encouraging people from the grassroots to become entrepreneurs through DTI-assisted projects such as financing
schemes, training and promotion.
One such DTI program, Santos cited, is the National Trade Fair (NTF), which is an annual platform for SMEs to break into the international market. "The NTF is a chance for SMEs from the regions to showcase their products and secure face-to-face communication with overseas businessmen," Santos said.
