Support Local: Unique Philippine Products You Can Sell Online
If you want to sell something unique online, why not offer local Philippine products and support our local producers as well? Finding the right products to sell might seem easy at first, but with an abundant catalog of trending and popular products out there, you might be overwhelmed. Initially, selling trending and popular items seems like THE idea because you’re guaranteed customers. However, it also means you’ll have more competitors. If you need a competitive edge over other sellers, stand out of the crowd by selling local products in the Philippines.
Why Sell Local Products Online?
They make unique gifts: The most famous local products in the Philippines are often items that you can’t find anywhere else. These aren’t the cookie-cutter products commercialized by big businesses; they’re personal and custom gifts that wow the recipients. Furthermore, you’re helping local entrepreneurs, crafters, and farmers. Customers know that when they buy a handmade item from you, they’re not just supporting your business; they’re also supporting the community behind your products. By buying raw materials or products from local crafters or farmers, you’re providing livelihood and keeping their culture alive as well.
Additionally, you can reach international buyers. Since your products are unavailable in other countries, chances are that international customers would be more interested in buying from you. Expand your reach internationally by encouraging global buyers to support Philippine products.
List of Local Products You Can Sell
If you want to make a splash as an entrepreneur, know that you can’t go wrong with Proudly Pinoy goods. Here are some famous local products in the Philippines that you can sell:
Filipino Delicacies
Local delicacies are popular souvenirs loved by both local and international tourists. Crowd favorites include otap (a crunchy and flaky puff pastry), polvoron (a crumbly treat made of powdered milk and toasted flour), dried mangoes, and pastillas de leche (creamy milk confections). When selling these, choose products with a long shelf life that won’t easily spoil while in transit.
Native Bags, Jewelry, and Accessories
Bags, fashion accessories, and embroidered garments made from native materials and designed with a local twist are popular items. These authentic and proudly pinoy souvenirs aren’t just beautifully made; they’re also comfy for wear and IG-worthy. Philippine-made accessories, like jewelry, are export-quality and attract international buyers. Selling such products offers opportunities to collaborate with local and indigenous communities.
Philippine Bayongs (With a Twist)
The bayong is an iconic Filipino accessory. This sturdy native bag is made from woven palm leaves. Traditionally, these bags are used when you’re out shopping at your local palengke, but now, many businesses have modernized the bayong to suit today’s fashion trends. Entice more customers to your business with hand-painted and customized bayongs.
Chocolate (Tsokolate)
Amuse the taste buds of dessert lovers with the Philippines’ take on chocolate (aka tsokolate). Philippine chocolates are, after all, some of the best in the world. You can sell famous Batangas tablea for people who love tsokolate de batirol, or resell homegrown, artisanal chocolate brands like Malagos, Theo + Philo, and Auro.
Kitchenware and Home Products
There are many homeowners who are looking for a unique and local touch to their decor. Materials vary from hard wood, bamboo, ceramics, rattan, and shells like capiz. They provide an elegant yet homey feel to every home.
Market Context and Regional Trade Data
When entering the local market, it is important to understand that the Philippines has the largest food trade deficit in the region, at about negative 2 percent of GDP in the past three years. This means that as it relies on imports from others for staples such as rice, the Philippines does not have tools, such as good protectionism, to help it through global crises. The following table provides a comparison of how different Asian economies manage their local markets and food inflation:
| Country | Primary Policy Tools | Trade Position |
|---|---|---|
| India | Export controls, lowered excise duties on fuels, subsidized fertilizer | Net exporter / Top global exporter of rice |
| Thailand | Fiscal subsidies and price controls | Largest trade surplus (close to 4% of GDP) |
| Indonesia | Fuel subsidies and export bans (e.g., palm oil) | Net exporter of specific agriculture |
| Philippines | Subsidies and gradual interest rate adjustments | Largest food trade deficit (-2% of GDP) |
Despite these challenges, local businesses like San Roque Supermarket (SRS) continue to serve local communities by offering a wide assortment of products at the best value prices. They offer a large variety of fresh items like rice, fish, fruits, and vegetables straight from local farms, committing to a superior and convenient shopping experience for the Filipino household.
