The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taipei is making significant headway in its marketing efforts which have helped drive revenues of Philippine manufacturers and generate new inward investment inquiries from Taiwan.

Antonio I. Basilio, MECO managing director and resident representative, said by increasing the effectiveness of its trade show participation, MECO helped Philippine manufacturers secure US$25 million worth of orders from two industry fairs in Taipei alone this year. This figure does not include sales generated through trade seminars, missions and smaller presentations spearheaded by MECO according to him.

“In the area of trade, we have embraced a pro-active lead generation strategy to win orders from and build long-term partnerships with our Taiwanese clients,” said Basilio.

Basilio said initial sales at the 2009 Taipei International Food Show held last June hit US$10 million, representing a 25% improvement over the US$8 million sales posted in 2008 and a 150% increase over the US$4 million figure posted by the Philippine delegation during the 2007 Taipei Food Show. The food show was held alongside two other food industry-related exhibitions: Foodtech, Catering and Pharmatech Taipei, and Taipei Pack 2009.

Philippine auto parts and accessories manufacturers likewise won US$15.075 million worth of initial sales during the 2009 Taipei International Auto Parts and Accessories (AMPA) Show held last April 14 to 17. The Philippine delegation’s showing was particularly impressive considering that the 2009 show marked the first time that Manila participated in the 25-year-old trade fair, recognized as Asia’s No. 1 auto parts show.

“More importantly, we are chasing solid leads that could help our car parts manufacturers generate revenues ranging from US$50 million to US$80 million annually starting 2010, using Taiwan as a jump-off point to markets in China, the Middle East, the EU, Africa and Oceania,” said Basilio.

“This is a morale-boosting vote of confidence from Taiwan’s car parts importers who have recognized the high workforce skills of the Philippines and our country’s appeal as a global investment destination,” added Basilio.

Dita Angara-Mathay, MECO director of commercial affairs, said significant leads are now the subject of capacity expansions for Philippine players supplying high value performance parts for racing, replacement mufflers, radiators, leaf springs and allied products.