The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed on Sept. 10 by DTI Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) Director Bianca Pearl R. Sykimte and DHL executives Nigel Lockett, country managing director of DHL Express Philippines; Yvonne Lee, managing director of DHL Global Forwarding Philippines; and Bevan Williams, country managing director of DHL Supply Chain Philippines.
Under the agreement, DHL will extend end-to-end trade solutions across its three business units: international express shipping and customs facilitation via DHL Express, air and ocean freight forwarding through DHL Global Forwarding, and contract logistics and warehouse management under DHL Supply Chain.
Export support programs
The signing coincided with Usapang Exports: Export 101 – Your Guide to Going Global with DHL Group, an information session for food exporters held at the DHL Ortigas Service Center in Pasig City. The session provided practical advice on trade processes and showcased logistics solutions for accessing overseas markets.
The event also marked the launch of activities under DHL’s GoTrade and SME Capacity Building Program. Upcoming initiatives will include training workshops, consultations, and market intelligence sharing to equip MSMEs with the knowledge and tools needed to compete globally.
Enabling small businesses
“Our exporters, especially MSMEs, face many hurdles in going global, not just in producing quality products but also in navigating logistics, customs, and compliance requirements,” Sykimte said.
“This partnership with DHL gives them a direct line to the knowledge, tools and network they need to compete abroad.”
She added that the collaboration would help exporters embrace greener logistics and digital trade solutions.
Lockett emphasized DHL’s role in enabling small businesses: “Filipino MSMEs have the creativity, quality and entrepreneurial spirit to thrive internationally—but they need the right support to overcome logistical and regulatory hurdles. Our integrated capabilities are built to meet the evolving needs of exporters and entrepreneurs.” —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
