Project to internationalize Ecuadorian gourmet products launched jointly with CORPEI

(Quito, February 8, 2008).- The joint project of the Andean Development Corporation and Corporación de Promoción de Exportaciones e Inversiones (CORPEI) known as "Internationalization strategy for gourmet products" was launched today. A series of presentations were given to publicize the project and its objectives, present the gourmet product market, explain its main characteristics, and the potential for entry of Ecuadorian products.

This project comes out of an initiative to promote diversification of Ecuadorian exports through gourmet products. CAF granted technical cooperation funds to CORPEI to be used to identify and define a high value-added exportable offer of gourmet products aimed at diversifying and increasing the country's exports.

To achieve this objective, CORPEI will develop an intervention model for SMEs which defines a basket of high value-added products, improves the technical conditions and management in companies, and defines appropriate marketing strategies. The project is part of the national strategy to diversify and increase exports as development pillar for the country.

Identification of specific products will be based on the sectors of chocolate, fruit pulp and concentrates, palmito, dehydrated exotic foods, aromatic infusions, among others.

Various specialized exhibitors took part in the launch event, including Valeria Escudero, deputy manager of export and market promotion; and Jairo Tiusabá, CAF competitiveness executive. Carolina Vargas gave a presentation on the gourmet sector, its market, trends and opportunities; and Marco Vernoiij on the Gourmet Project, its scope, objectives and commitments.

This important joint initiative by CAF and CORPEI is very important for stimulating the country's exports and contributing to its development.