2026 National Food Fair Generates ₱125M in Sales, Expands Market Opportunities for MSMEs

 

NFF Special Setting

The 2026 DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair (NFF) recorded a total of ₱125.6-million in sales, reaffirming its role as a premier platform for strengthening market access and commercial linkages for Filipino food micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Held from April 8 to 12, 2026, at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall, the five-day event gathered over 300 exhibitors from across the country. It provided a strategic venue for MSMEs to connect with institutional buyers, retailers, and consumers in a highly targeted, business-driven environment.

Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque underscored that the fair forms part of the government’s broader whole-of-government approach under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda, ensuring that MSMEs are not only supported but equipped to scale sustainably. She emphasized the importance of sustained market access and long-term business partnerships.

DTI Sec. Cristina A. Roque (extreme right) leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony during the official opening of the 2026 DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair. Joining her is her Assistant Sec. Nylah Rizza Bautista of the DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group and Agriculture Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. 

In her keynote message, DTI Secretary Roque reassured Filipino MSMEs, saying, “Beyond the immediate solutions that we offer, our goal is long-term growth. We want your businesses to be efficient and innovative so that you do not just survive uncertainty, you thrive in it.”

Complementing this, DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista highlighted the fair’s thematic focus, stating, “This year, we highlight key drivers shaping a stronger food sector—coconut-based products, Halal-certified goods, and the creativity of former OFWs turned entrepreneurs.”

Meanwhile, Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted the critical link between agriculture and enterprise. He noted that strengthening support for farmers and food producers, coupled with improved market access, is essential to building a more competitive and resilient food industry.

Responding to evolving global trends, the 2026 NFF also spotlighted the expanding halal market as a key growth opportunity for Filipino MSMEs. With rising international demand for halal-certified products, the fair emphasized the importance of certification, standards compliance, and continuous product development in unlocking new export markets.

The event further featured emerging entrepreneurs, including overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have transitioned into MSME ownership, offering products shaped by both global exposure and local innovation.

Through initiatives such as the Business Connect Lounge, the NFF strengthened buyer engagement and facilitated long-term partnerships between MSMEs and institutional buyers, extending business opportunities beyond the duration of the fair.

As part of the government’s broader market access strategy, the National Food Fair continues to evolve as a dynamic platform that prepares, positions, and connects Filipino enterprises for growth in both domestic and international markets.

With its strong sales performance and expanded market linkages, the 2026 NFF reflects the resilience, creativity, and growing competitiveness of Filipino food entrepreneurs.