CITEM expects $25 million in export sales at Manila FAME

The Department of Trade and Industry expects at least $25 million in export sales at the first Manila FAME expo of the year, according to an official from the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM). “For the March show, $25 million is a good beginning, but this could still increase as orders go out,” said CITEM executive director Rosvi C. Gaetos on Friday. Manila FAME, or the Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturer’s Exchange, is held twice a year. The March event showcases furniture and home furnishings, while the October trade show promotes furniture, fashion accessories and holiday gifts. According to Gaetos, in 2012 Manila FAME snagged $21 million in exports sales in March and $27 million in October. Both shows generated P90 million in local sales. The four-day event opened last Thursday. CITEM expects a final turnout of 1,500 international and 4,000 local buyers. — BM, GMA News