DTI and SM Supermalls Strengthen Partnership to Help MSMEs Scale

Brands Business

The 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair concluded at SM Megamall after five days of showcasing Filipino enterprise, creativity, and resilience—bringing together MSMEs, institutional buyers, and consumers in a highly accessible, high-engagement setting that turned commerce into a shared public experience.

Held from February 18–22, 2026 at Megatrade Halls 1–3, the fair featured locally made food, fashion, home, and lifestyle products, business-matching opportunities, and curated exhibits highlighting sustainable production and elevated Filipino design. These on-ground activities supported the Bagong Pilipinas agenda by expanding market access, strengthening value chains, and creating pathways for MSMEs to scale.

“It’s rare to find a place where you can get the chance to buy the best of the Philippines, and it’s good that it’s in a very accessible location.”

“Ang galing po kasi noon, doon lang kami sa bayan namin sa Aklan nakakapagbenta. Ngayon po, two years na kami nakakasali sa trade fairs and lumawak na po ang market namin. May mga orders na po kami galing sa ibang lugar.”

The staging of the National Trade Fair at SM Megamall highlighted how well-loved, high-traffic urban spaces can function as effective platforms for national programs—giving MSMEs the opportunity to reach new markets, test products in real time, and engage directly with partners and consumers.

“Our partnership with SM goes beyond providing space—it is about building a full ecosystem for MSMEs. Through SM Supermalls and its retail businesses like SM Department Store, SM Markets, and Kultura, MSMEs are given real market access, visibility, and opportunities to scale. This kind of private-sector commitment is exactly what enables Filipino entrepreneurs to grow, professionalize, and contribute meaningfully to inclusive national development,” said Cris Roque, Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry

By supporting nationally significant trade fairs, SM Supermalls broadens MSME reach through accessible, high-visibility locations, supports business growth through professional environments designed for market readiness, and contributes to nation-building by aligning its mall infrastructure with programs that generate livelihood and strengthen local industries.