EXPANDING overseas might help grow one’s business. But when it comes exporting products, stringent requirements are needed.
According to SGS Philippines, there is a need to drum up awareness for local brands to adhere to international standards, permits and licenses, should they pursue bringing their brands to other parts of the world.
SGS is an inspection, testing, verification, and certification company that provides risk management and quality assurance assistance to both local and multinational corporations in the country.
Jose Decolongon, SGS Philippine’s business manager for agriculture, food and life division, noted that while other ally-countries have reduced their tariffs for some Filipino export products, it is also important to know that these countries have also increased their product quality standards.
“This only means that we need to upgrade and make sure that our products passed their standards. Consumers these days have become sophisticated and they require more product value to every penny they spend,” said Decolongon.
He said that not all companies that do business outside the country become successful, as some have products that have been barred from entering a foreign country because they fail to pass screenings, especially if there are virus outbreaks.
He mentioned that China is one of the countries that implement stricter food standards.
SGS provides services to agriculture and food, automotive, chemical, construction, consumer goods and retail, energy, finance, industrial manufacturing, life science, logistics, mining, oil and gas, public sector, environment, health and safety, risk management, sustainability and trade.
According to Decolongon, some companies seek their expertise in preparation for expansion (both local and international) or for higher accreditation. He stressed that it is imperative for local companies to secure these “stamps of approval” to remain globally competitive, otherwise, they lose clients.
Information circulated online also influences consumers’ buying habits. Anything wrong found in a product may make or break a company’s image, affecting revenue streams, warned Decolongon.
SGS Philippines said they are making noise in Cebu, the second busiest city next to Manila, where a boom in trading and manufacturing services is unstoppable. They want to attract more clients, specifically in food manufacturing and hospital management.
The company is also extending its expertise, in support of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), to offer assistance to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in quality inspection and testing for agricultural and food products through the Kaagapay Program.