CITEM Brings Artisanal Homeware to Seoul Gift Show

Sept. 21, 2012 - PRLog -- Taking advantage of the Philippines strength in creating cutting-edge designs
and craftsmanship, the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions
(CITEM) will highlight artisanal homeware in the upcoming Seoul Gift Show on 20-
23 September 2012, in Seoul, Korea. Organized by CITEM, in cooperation with the
ASEAN-Korea Centre, the third Philippine participation in the gift show aims to tap
the growing demand of the Asian gift market for innovative designs that are also
functional.

“The Seoul Gift Show is a great opportunity to position Philippine homeware as
products of premium artisanal quality that adheres to the Asian market’s demand.
We hope to be able to tap new markets and open more business opportunities for
our exporters by participating in the gift show,” said Rosvi Gaetos, Executive Director
of CITEM, the export marketing authority of the Department of Trade and Industry
(DTI).

At the Seoul Gift Show, Philippine companies Arden Classic, Inc. and CSM
Philippines, Inc. will exhibit premium and creatively designed homeware as part of
their booth presentation in the ASEAN Pavilion. Both companies will be exhibiting
handcrafted, functional, and environment-friendly products. Arden Classic, Inc.’s
decorative accessories and gifts are made of indigenous materials like seashells,
abaca fibers, coconut shells, and fish skin, while CSM Philippines, Inc.’s products are
made of fine bone china and porcelain.

Gaetos also mentioned that the participation in the gift fair will serve as a preview of
some of the products to be featured in the upcoming Manila FAME in October. “We’re
presenting sophisticated artistry and high-quality products in the Seoul Gift Show to
entice foreign buyers and invite them to visit Manila FAME where more high-end and
innovative designs will be showcased,” Gaetos added.

The upcoming edition of Manila FAME, the Design and Lifestyle Event, will highlight
acclaimed Filipino creativity and ingenuity via its theme “The Art of the Craftsman =
The Soul of the Philippines”.

Giving Manila FAME a different flavor is US homestyle industry expert James Booth
who serves as Manila FAME’s show director, joined by Filipino design luminaries Josie
Natori, Antonio “Budji” Layug, and Kenneth Cobonpue as creative directors, and
visual merchandising specialist Ito Kish.

Manila FAME will be held on 17-20 October 2012, at the SMX Convention Center,
Pasay City, Philippines.