The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is partnering with logistics giant DHL Group to strengthen the export readiness of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The DTI said it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with DHL on Sept. 10 to outline the logistics advisory support and knowledge-sharing initiatives for MSMEs.

DTI Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) Director Bianca Pearl Sykimte said this agreement with the company aims to address the hurdles of MSMEs in going global.

Sykimte said that MSMEs, which account for 99 percent of all businesses in the country, often struggle to navigate logistics, customs, and compliance requirements.

“This partnership with DHL gives them a direct line to the knowledge, tools, and network they need to compete abroad,” she said.

With the emergence of new technologies, the DTI is keen on harnessing DHL’s expertise to help MSMEs adopt greener logistics solutions and digital tools that will make cross-border trade more efficient.

“This ensures that our exporters are not only keeping pace with global trends but are also contributing to more resilient and responsible trade practices,” said Sykimte.

Under the MOU, DHL will deliver end-to-end trade solutions through its three business units: DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL Supply Chain.

This will enable MSMEs to learn the ins and outs of international express shipping and customs facilitation, air and ocean freight forwarding, and contract logistics and warehouse management.

DHL Express Philippines Country Managing Director Nigel Lockett said the German multinational logistics firm is committed to enhancing the capabilities of MSMEs to meet a global audience.

“Filipino MSMEs have the creativity, quality, and entrepreneurial spirit to thrive internationally—but they need the right support to overcome logistical and regulatory hurdles,” said Lockett.

“Our integrated capabilities are built to meet the evolving needs of exporters and entrepreneurs,” he added.

Apart from the agreement, the DTI said it also launched a series of activities under DHL’s GoTrade and SME Capacity Building Program.

Initiatives under this program include training workshops, consultations, and the sharing of market intelligence to equip Filipino exporters with the knowledge and tools they need to stand out globally.