The 40th Manila FAME, a showcase for Filipino design and craftsmanship, closed 2023 with $6.6 million in sales, a 51-percent increase from $4.37 million in the last face-to-face edition in 2019, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) said Monday.
CITEM said more than 200 local exhibitors from the home, fashion and lifestyle sectors attracted more than 4,000 local and international visitors, positioning Manila FAME as a vital platform for Philippine exports.
“Through time, the Philippines became famous because our craftsmen and designers were able to come up every year with new designs, new ideas, and new ways of using the materials,” said decor and furniture curator Tony Gonzales.
Domestic sales also reached P44.7 million in 2023.
“Everything Green” coconut slippers topped the export charts with over $3.3 million in sales, while Design Commune, a curated space showcasing new designs from 40 local companies, unveiled 425 fresh pieces under the guidance of experts Tony Gonzales, Rita Nazareno and Gabriel Lichauco.
Nazareno and Lichauco collaborated to create a contemporary twist into everyday fashion, focusing on combining utility and Philippine culture.
Manila FAME also honored outstanding and innovative product designs during the KATHA Awards ceremony titled “Pagsibol: A Gala Night Celebrating Filipino Design Excellence” held at the National Museum of Natural History.
The ceremony recognized the best product designs in furniture, home décor and houseware, lamps and lighting, holiday and gifts and fashion.
Manila FAME, as the launching pad of Filipino manufacturers and artisans, traditionally starts the global promotion of locally made export-quality products.
CITEM expects more international buyers and patrons to look forward to seeing selected local exhibitors joining overseas trade fairs under the banner DesignPHILIPPINES and in the upcoming Paris-based trade show Maison et Objet on Jan. 18 to 22, 2024.
CITEM executive director Edward Fereira encouraged the industry to “keep the momentum and continue elevating Philippine enterprises as they try reaching various markets around the world.”