While MSMEs still comprise the majority of registered businesses in the country, a survey conducted by the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) – Ecommerce Office in September 2020 showed that 73% of MSMES still require assistance in digitizing their operations. Shopee remains committed to help MSMEs transition to digital easily and seamlessly as it once again partners with the DTI to launch the #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair from March 18-24. This initiative is in line with Shopee’s goal to provide local MSMEs with the support that they need to grow their businesses online.
Through the week-long virtual trade fair, Shopee users will be able to discover and purchase Filipino-made essentials from a variety of shops ranging from snack food, health & beauty, groceries & pet stores, fashion, and more, at discounted rates. This year’s #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair will feature a diverse range of local sellers from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This is among Shopee’s many initiatives to empower local businesses to shift online and encourage users to support them. Alongside these virtual trade fairs, sellers are also provided with different marketing tools, training, and initiatives to help them maximize their businesses’ growth on the platform such as Shopee University Summit, where local MSMEs can learn ways to drive their business growth from industry speakers and leaders.
The virtual trade fair will also feature products from beloved Filipino brands such as Splash Personal Care, Zenutrients, Go Natural, Ever Bilena, San Miguel Foods, EQ, Lifeline Clothing, Sweetbaby, and Tala by Kyla.
DTI’s Bureau of Domestic Trade Promotion Director Marievic Bonoan says, “Being able to provide our local MSMEs with opportunities for growth and development is one of our top priorities at the DTI. We understand the important role e-commerce platforms, like Shopee, play in creating a seamless digital transition for MSMEs. Through initiatives like the #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair, we believe that we can help these businesses maximize their full potential and make the digital transition smoother.”
Shopee Philippines Director Martin Yu says, “Supporting MSMEs is at the very core of what we do. We are deeply committed to creating more opportunities to help our local businesses adapt and thrive in the e-commerce industry through initiatives like our #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair. We look forward to this opportunity to once again help our sellers in their e-commerce journey, and also allow our users to support these community-owned businesses.”
Aside from the wide range of products available at the #TatakPinoy Virtual Trade Fair, Shopee users will also be also enjoy ShopeePay vouchers for 20% off with a minimum purchase of Php 300, valid on all #TatakPinoy: Virtual Trade Fair items this March 18-24.