In line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to deepen trade and investment ties with key global partners, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque held a strategic meeting with executives of Pan Pacific International Holdings Corporation (PPIH), the Japanese retail powerhouse behind the popular Don Quijote and Don Don Donki store chains.
Held in Tokyo, the meeting centered on expanding the sourcing of Philippine products for inclusion in PPIH’s global store network, particularly in Japan, the United States, and other Asian markets.
PPIH expressed strong interest in increasing the visibility of Filipino-made goods in their retail ecosystem, both as standalone Philippine-branded products and as ingredients or components for Japanese-packaged offerings tailored to local markets.
“We welcome every opportunity to introduce Filipino products to the world—especially through partners who share our commitment to innovation, inclusion, and excellence,” Roque said.
“Engagements like this underscore our dedication to creating new market avenues for Filipino enterprises.”
“As we work toward a more dynamic and future-ready Bagong Pilipinas, engagements like this underscore our dedication to creating new market avenues for Filipino enterprises,” the trade chief added.
PPIH identified food and wellness items, natural and sustainable home goods, and unique lifestyle products as key areas of sourcing interest. They also expressed a desire to connect directly with more Philippine exporters and manufacturers, beyond current intermediaries, to gain better access to new and trending products. The company’s interest in sourcing quality goods that reflect both value and cultural appeal presents promising prospects for Philippine exporters.
The trade head emphasized the Philippines’ growing export capabilities and affirmed the government’s readiness to assist Japanese partners in identifying and onboarding suppliers that meet international standards. The discussions also explored collaborative solutions to address regulatory and packaging requirements, facilitating smoother entry of Philippine products into foreign retail markets.
“Opening a Donki store in the Philippines remains a long-term consideration.”
While PPIH noted that opening a Donki store in the Philippines remains a long-term consideration, executives acknowledged that a successful sourcing partnership with the Philippine government and exporters could play a significant role in including the Philippines in future regional expansion plans.
With support from the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Tokyo led by commercial counselor Dita Angara-Mathay, the Department of Trade and Industry continues to cultivate high-value partnerships that bring Filipino innovation closer to consumers around the globe.
“As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing global economy, we are guided by a fundamental principle: alone we can only do so little, but together, we can achieve so much,” Roque added.
The meeting reflects the shared commitment of both parties to pursue sustainable and mutually beneficial opportunities. It also lays the groundwork for enhanced collaboration between the Philippines and Japan’s dynamic retail sector.
