PAGADIAN CITY, 24 Aug (PIA) – The 32nd Mindanao Business Conference (MINBIZCON) commenced with an impressive trade fair and exhibit at C3 Mall, in this city, that runs until August 25, 2023.

Organized in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-9, Pagadian ZDS Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation INC. (PZCCIFI), Department of Agriculture (DA)-9, City Government of Pagadian, and the Provincial Government of Zamboanga del Sur, this year's MINBIZCON celebrates the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation among local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The trade fair features more than 50 exhibitors from Zamboanga Peninsula and nearby provinces, showcasing an array of vibrant food and non-food products. With a focus on enhancing the visibility of these local businesses, the event aims to foster networking, collaboration, and growth.

The official commencement of the Trade Fair and Exhibit was signaled by the ceremonial banging of the gong, symbolizing the opening of opportunities for both exhibitors and visitors.

Marlon Alabata, the Provincial Director of DTI-ZDS, addressed the attendees and remarked, "The unity and collaboration showcased within these walls signify the collective commitment to advancing Mindanao’s business landscape. This trade fair not only celebrates the accomplishment of our region’s entrepreneurs but serves as a platform for networking, collaboration, and growth."

Hazel J. Lu, President of PZCCIFI Chamber, laid out the purposes of the conference. She pointed out that the objectives of the 32nd Mindanao Business Conference are actually aimed at assisting our MSMEs. This includes showcasing the potential of tourism, increasing exposure to value-adding innovations, creating opportunities for business-to-business meetings, and promoting strong partnerships between bigger and smaller businesses, known as the Big Brother and Small Brother business relations.

Furthermore, Angelie Amazon from DTI-Zamboanga City expressed optimism that the event would elevate the appreciation of local products and culture. "We expect na mapromote gayud ang local products sa Zamboanga City and ma-appreciate nila ang culture through our products (We expect that the local products in Zamboanga City will indeed be promoted, and they will come to appreciate the culture through our products)," she said.

The 32nd Mindanao Business Conference's trade fair and exhibit serve as a testament to the resilience and creativity of local MSMEs, fostering economic growth and intercultural exchange in the region. The event is poised to inspire collaboration, innovation, and progress for the local business landscape in Mindanao. (NBE/EDT/HTB/PIA9-Zamboanga del Sur)