As part of this strategic initiative to unlock new export opportunities, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina A. Roque met with top executives of Pan Pacific International Holdings Corp. (PPIH) on May 19 in Tokyo.
PPIH operates the said Japanese retail chains, recognized for their eclectic and wide-ranging product selections across Japan, the United States, and several Asian markets.
The meeting centered on deepening PPIH’s sourcing engagement with the Philippines, with the goal of integrating more locally made goods into their global retail ecosystem. Roque highlighted the significance of such partnerships in advancing the Bagong Pilipinas vision and showcasing Filipino craftsmanship on the world stage.
“We welcome every opportunity to introduce Filipino products to the world—especially through partners who share our commitment to innovation, inclusion, and excellence,” Roque stated.
PPIH expressed a keen interest in food and wellness items, sustainable home goods, and unique lifestyle products—categories where Philippine producers are making notable strides, the DTI said in a statement.
The Japanese retailer also expressed interest in engaging directly with Filipino exporters and manufacturers, bypassing traditional intermediaries to gain faster access to trending, high-quality items with strong cultural appeal, it added.
During the meeting, according to the DTI, Roque emphasized the country’s growing capacity to meet international export standards and reiterated the government’s readiness to assist Japanese partners in identifying and onboarding capable suppliers.
The dialogue also tackled practical issues like compliance with packaging and regulatory requirements—crucial for smooth entry into competitive retail markets.
While the idea of opening a Don Don Donki branch in the Philippines remains a long-term prospect, PPIH indicated that successful sourcing partnerships could play a critical role in shaping its future regional expansion strategy, the DTI said. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
