The 39th Negros Trade Fair opened Tuesday, September 23, at SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier in Taguig City, celebrating Negrense culture and entrepreneurship under the theme “Himbon,” which means ‘to gather.’
On opening day, the fair generated P7.427 million in sales, with the food sector leading at 39 percent, followed by fashion at 28 percent, and gifts and housewares at 15 percent, Mary Ann Colmenares, co-chair of the trade fair, reported.
After nearly two decades, the fair returned to SM Supermalls, bringing together government officials, business partners, and artisans to showcase local craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit.
The Association of Negros Producers (ANP), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental, organizes the annual fair and provides MSMEs a platform to connect tradition with innovation and reach a larger market.
This year, 139 exhibitors occupy 2,500 square meters, making it the largest edition in the fair’s history.
Colmenares said visitors can explore authentic Negrense cuisine, handwoven and sustainable fashion, handcrafted décor and gifts, natural wellness products, tourism experiences, and export-quality furniture inspired by local traditions.
Since its modest beginnings in 1985 with just 30 vendors, the NTF has grown into a national platform for MSMEs, promoting Negrense craftsmanship.
The NTF will run until Sunday, September 28.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a personal blog on Medium.