DTI & DHL Team Up to Boost MSME Export Readiness

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with DHL Group Philippines to enhance the worldwide competitiveness of Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The alliance, signed on September 10, will extend end-to-end logistics services as well as knowledge-sharing programs designed to make MSMEs export-ready. DHL will provide trade solutions across its business units: DHL Express (international shipping and customs clearance), DHL Global Forwarding (air freight and ocean freight), and DHL Supply Chain (contract logistics and warehousing).

"Many challenges our exporters, particularly MSMEs, encounter in going global. This collaboration with DHL provides them with a direct access to knowledge, tools, and network that will enable them to compete overseas." said Bianca Pearl Sykimte, Director of DTI-Export Marketing Bureau.

Key highlights:

• DTI and DHL Group signed an MOU on September 10 to provide end-to-end logistics support and export readiness training for Filipino MSMEs
• The partnership includes DHL’s Express, Global Forwarding, and Supply Chain units to assist MSMEs with international shipping, customs, freight, and warehousing
• The launch event featured an info session, "Usapang Exports: Export 101," and marked the beginning of DHL’s GoTrade and SME Capacity Building Program

The signing came alongside an information session, Usapang Exports: Export 101 – Your Guide to Going Global with DHL Group, at the DHL Ortigas Service Centre in Pasig City. The session provided hands-on guidance on trade and logistics processes.

The event also kickstarted DHL's GoTrade and SME Capacity Building Program, consisting of training workshops, consultations, and market intelligence sharing.

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Nigel Lockett, Country Managing Director of DHL Express Philippines, renewed support for domestic enterprises, saying, "Filipino MSMEs possess the creativity, quality, and entrepreneurial drive to succeed abroad. Our end-to-end capabilities are designed to address their changing needs."

Sykimte further added, "The future of trade will be digital and sustainable. Supported by DHL's experience, we are able to assist MSMEs in keeping up with DHL’s expertise, we can help MSMEs adapt to greener logistics solutions and digital tools.”