Bonjour French Food: An introduction to French apples and a celebration of innovation

I “Bonjour French Food” initiative, organized by French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines (CCIFP) and Lift upconcluded its successful three-day event at Grand Hyatt Hotel BGC, Taguig, Metro Manila, to create a remarkable platform for French fruit exporters and Philippine stakeholders to strengthen relationships and explore new business opportunities. Held since Nov. 12-14, 2024, the program highlighted France’s unique fruit industry, with a special focus on it showing French apple goodness.

Cultivating Business Connections and Reflecting French Excellence

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The event began with insightful opening remarks from key leaders, including Kevin Charuel, Executive Director of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines (CCIFP), followed by an inspirational message from Undersecretary Cheryl Caballero of the Department of Agriculture for the Development of Precious Plants. The program. Philippe Lintanf, Regional Food Counselor at the French Embassy in the Philippines and Micronesia, provided a detailed summary of France’s strict phytosanitary standards. Daniel Sauvaitre, President of Interfel, and Eric Guasch, Chairman of Interfel’s International Committee, shared important information on the French apple sector. Together, these presentations demonstrated the commitment to quality and sustainability that defines French agriculture, setting a participatory and appreciative tone for the day’s events.

Culinary Workshop: Fusion of Flavor and Techniques

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The seminar was followed by a culinary workshop, showcasing the versatility of French apples in Filipino gastronomy. Led by renowned chefs – Chef Charles Soussin of Interfel, Chef Mark Hagan of Grand Hyatt Manila, and Chef Carlo Miguel of LTB Philippines Chefs Association – the event showcased masterpieces such as Stuffed Apple Chicken and Prawn and Apple Coulis and glazed vegetables, highlighting the versatility of French apples. Attendees were inspired by the workshop, which brought together French cuisine and produce and sparked enthusiasm for cross-cultural exchange.

Building Partnerships Through Networking and Taste

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A series of business-to-business (B2B) meetings provided the French delegation with valuable opportunities to network with local importers, retailers, and distributors. These sessions featured a variety of French apples from the four companies that make up the team: Innatis, Distrimex, Groupe La Blottière and Blue Whale. During these meetings, local operators had the opportunity to taste and understand the differences between the varieties of apples presented during the event. These include Golden, Royal Gala, Juliet, Candine, Kissabel, Red, Story and Granny Smith.

The session concluded with a cocktail reception, which encouraged meaningful discussions and set the stage for future partnerships. Guests enjoyed a selection of apple-inspired delicacies alongside a unique cocktail designed by the Grand Hyatt’s Head Mixologist, featuring Calvados – a French apple brand from renowned producer Christian Drouhin. The evening highlighted the promising potential of France and the Philippines to strengthen business relationships through a shared passion for quality and culinary excellence.

Thinking About Success and Future Partnerships

The French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines and Interfel express their heartfelt gratitude to all participants, partners, and stakeholders who participated in making “Bonjour French Food” an inspiring and impactful event. Apart from business, the event strengthened the lasting relationship between France and the Philippines, celebrating cultural connections and paving the way for continued economic cooperation.

The French apple industry’s commitment to sustainability and premium quality is closely aligned with the Philippine market’s growing demand for excellence, quality, and environmental awareness. “Bonjour French Food” is an example of how bilateral trade efforts can develop not only business opportunities but also mutual understanding, creating a lasting impact in the fruit sector. The first shipment of French apples is expected to arrive in the Philippines in the coming weeks, bringing excitement to Filipino consumers.

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