Some 15 micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) from the Bicol Region have made a remarkable sale at the 19th Lifestyle Expo at the Tokyo Big Sight in Japan, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Monday.

DTI-Bicol spokesperson Jocelyn Berango said in an interview that the MSMEs’ products, especially the abaca coasters and mats, generated a total of USD262,329 or PHP15.2 million in sales during the event held July 3–5.

“The three-day event blazed trails all over Tokyo, drawing thousands of locals and foreign nationals, institutions, business leaders, and entrepreneurs. An outbound business mission was also conducted during the expo, further enhancing opportunities for collaboration and expansion,” she said.

Berango said the MSMEs’ success at the expo shows the importance of collaboration, networking, and partnership.

“During the event, Bicol entrepreneurs showcased their premium, innovative, trendy, and exquisitely designed fashion goods and accessories, or wearables and homestyle, which were tailored to meet the needs of the Japanese market,” she said.

Berango said that everything from artisanal products to sustainable fashion goods and accessories and household items, including the top-selling luncheon mats and coasters, captured the attention of global buyers and industry experts, highlighting their growing influence in the worldwide market.

In a statement, DTI-Bicol Regional Director Dindo G. Nabol said, “Participation in such an international expo has been another transformative experience for Bicol MSMEs.”

“Our entrepreneurs have not only proven their ability to compete on an international level but have also shown the world the potential of Bicol’s rich culture,” he added.

Nabol said commitment to quality and creativity was evident, setting new benchmarks for excellence. (PNA)