CITEM Explained: Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions  

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) is a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) officially tasked with promoting Philippine products and services to global markets through trade fairs, export missions, and digital platforms. Established in 1983 through the merger of two agencies, it was created to help Filipino exporters, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), gain international visibility and competitiveness. Its primary objective is to support export growth by positioning the Philippines as a reliable source of quality, globally competitive products and services.

CITEM mainly exists to help Philippine businesses, especially MSMEs, expand their reach by connecting them with international buyers and promoting locally made products in global markets. With this organization in place, you can look forward to trade fairs, export missions, and digital platforms that open new business opportunities, boost the country’s export growth, and highlight Filipino creativity and quality. If you’re looking to understand what CITEM is, this guide breaks down its story, and lists every function, program, and role it plays in the advancement of trade and society.

Background and History

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Photo credit: CITEM

CITEM was officially established in 1983 through the merger of the Philippine Trade Exhibition Center (PTEC) and CITEM, Inc. It was created to institutionalize trade exhibitions for promoting locally made products and helping Philippine exporters meet international standards. It also ensures Philippine participation in both local and international trade fairs, supporting non-traditional exports and helping local businesses in the global market. 

Originally, it managed both local and overseas trade fairs, selling missions, and other promotional activities to assist Filipino businesses in gaining global market access until it expanded its programs to include digital platforms alongside physical events, supporting a wider range of industries like home, fashion, food, and creative sectors. Later, it evolved further to become a key government agency recognized for organizing major trade events like IFEX Philippines and Manila FAME, while expanding its programs through digital platforms. Today, CITEM continues as a GOCC dedicated to developing the country’s image as a trusted export source.

Purpose and Legal Mandate

It was created to help Philippine companies expand their market reach abroad. Its official mandates are outlined in several executive orders:

  • EO 989 (1984), EO 133 (1987), EO 242 (1987), EO 75 (2024)
  • Created from the merger of two organizations: Philippine Trade Exhibition Center (PTEC) and CITEM, Inc.

As a non-profit, service-oriented agency, CITEM focuses on export development rather than generating profit. It organizes both local and international trade fairs and missions designed to upgrade Philippine products to international standards.

Mission

“We enable Philippine companies to become global champions through sustainable export promotion programs and activities.”

Vision

“CITEM is recognized as the country’s top-of-mind trade promotion agency that contributes to the export growth of priority products and services.”

Core Values

  • Integrity
  • Results-driven
  • Inclusivity
  • Resiliency

CITEM Performance Pledge

As an organization, it commits to:

  • Client-Focused Services: Supporting SMEs through tailored programs
  • Integrity: Honest and transparent operations
  • Timeliness: Meeting deadlines efficiently
  • Excellence: Maintaining high standards for export promotion
  • Mover Status: Leading Philippine products into the global arena

Quality Policy

CITEM guarantees high-quality administrative support services, focusing on human resources, procurement, and finance. Its policies emphasize:

  • Timely and accurate services for trade fair management
  • Innovation and compliance with legal and regulatory standards
  • Professionalism, accountability, and continuous learning
  • Transparency and ethical operations

Core Functions

Its primary goal is to promote Philippine products and services globally. Here’s a clear overview of its main functions:

  • Organizing official Philippine participation in overseas trade fairs and expositions
  • Institutionalizing locally held international trade fairs such as IFEX Philippines and Manila FAME
  • Implementing programs to upgrade Philippine products and services to international standards
  • Promoting Philippine products as reliable, high-quality exports
  • Supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through export development programs

Logo

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Photo credit: CITEM

The CITEM logo features the word “CITEM” in a modern, stylized font where the letter “C” forms an open circular shape, symbolizing openness to global opportunities and continuous movement in trade promotion. Its upward-slanted layout suggests growth, progress, and forward direction, reflecting CITEM’s commitment to expanding Philippine exports. The deep maroon color gives the logo a strong, formal look associated with professionalism and government service.

Organizational Structure

It operates under the leadership of its Executive Director, supported by the Deputy Executive Director, both overseen by a Board of Governors that guides its policies and major programs. Its organizational structure is divided into key departments: the Service Business Department focusing on lifestyle and creative sectors, and the Consumer Business Department handling food and other industries. Additional divisions include the Communications and Creative Services Department, which manages branding and promotions, and the Corporate Services Department, which oversees administrative, finance, and support functions. This structure allows them to efficiently manage trade fairs, export programs, and digital platforms while upholding transparency, governance, and public service standards.

Market Focus

CITEM targets two main groups of buyers:

  • Primary Market: Priority global buyers with established interest in Philippine products
  • Secondary Market: Emerging buyers from new and developing markets

Competitors and Industry Position

While private sector groups also organize trade fairs, CITEM’s public service orientation distinguishes it. It does not directly compete with private organizations locally but faces international competition from other countries’ trade promotion agencies.

How CITEM Supports Exporters

CITEM supports exporters through two main service categories:

  • Promotions Program: Organizing trade fairs, expositions, and missions
  • Corollary Services:
    • Market research and updates
    • Merchandise design consultations
    • Export coaching and brand building
    • Permanent showrooms and talent development

These services aim to help Philippine exporters meet international standards while making Philippine products visible and attractive to global buyers.

Programs Offered

Some of the programs offered by CITEM include the following: 

Signature Events (Physical and Digital)

  • IFEX Philippines
  • Manila FAME
  • Create Philippines (Online Campaign)

Total companies assisted: 767 exhibitors

Overseas Trade Promotion Programs

  • Ambiente (Germany)
  • Gulfood (Dubai)
  • China-ASEAN Expo
  • Anuga (Germany)
  • China International Import Expo
  • Maison&Objet and More (Online)

Total companies assisted: 153 exhibitors

Digital Promotion Platforms

Total companies assisted: 588 exhibitors

Total Beneficiaries for 2023: 1,508 companies assisted across all programs.

Video: Understanding CITEM

For years, CITEM has helped Filipino businesses connect with global markets by promoting top-quality local products. From signature trade events to international expos, CITEM actively supports the growth of Philippine exports. Learn more about it by watching this video below:

How to Reach CITEM

For more information, visit CITEM’s official website: http://citem.gov.ph/. You may also contact them via the following: 

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