Monday, January 31, 2011
Qatar-Local Customs & Culture
In general, the Qatari Inhabitants are of Arabic origin and the culture is very much based on Islamic tradition. Islam is the dominant influence on day-to-day life. This rich cultural tradition is present in what they wear, eat and drink. Qataris are known for their generosity and friendliness, thus making Qatar a very welcoming country.
Traditional dress is evident throughout Qatar with the men wearing a long flowing white garment called the dishdha or thobe with a headdress called the gutra. Women in public where the black Abaya, a long loose black robe which covers the clothes worn underneath. Some women wear a thin black veil over the face, while some a burka, which sometimes can cover the cheek, bones and leave only the eyes open.
Pork is outlawed in Qatar and cannot be found anywhere- it is also illegal to bring it into the country. Muslims are forbidden to eat any meat that is not slaughtered in accordance to the Islamic code; this is referred to as halaal. Consumption of alcohol is frowned upon by Qataris.
(reference: www.qatarliving.com)
Traditional dress is evident throughout Qatar with the men wearing a long flowing white garment called the dishdha or thobe with a headdress called the gutra. Women in public where the black Abaya, a long loose black robe which covers the clothes worn underneath. Some women wear a thin black veil over the face, while some a burka, which sometimes can cover the cheek, bones and leave only the eyes open.
Pork is outlawed in Qatar and cannot be found anywhere- it is also illegal to bring it into the country. Muslims are forbidden to eat any meat that is not slaughtered in accordance to the Islamic code; this is referred to as halaal. Consumption of alcohol is frowned upon by Qataris.
(reference: www.qatarliving.com)
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Ettiquettes to follow in doing business with the Arabs-Middle Eastern
Etiquettes mean socially correct behavior, manners and politeness. Etiquette is other aspect of decorum. Etiquette governs the expectations of social behavior according to the norms within a society, social class, or group. Etiquette fundamentally prescribes and restricts the ways in which people interact with each other, and show their respect for other people by conforming to the norms of society.
Etiquette depends on culture what is excellent etiquette in one society may shock in another. Etiquette evolves within culture.
Etiquette requires every where. Etiquette would not seem to play an important part in business, and yet no man can ever tell when its knowledge may be of advantage, or its lack may turn the scale against him.
Some useful facts about Arabia
Islam demands from its believers that they establish peace in the world, promote love and make such examples of themselves that others, knowing that they are Muslims, feel at peace and harmony in that knowledge. This is the true Islam and what it means to be a Muslim.
(Reference: Dubai City online)
Etiquette depends on culture what is excellent etiquette in one society may shock in another. Etiquette evolves within culture.
Etiquette requires every where. Etiquette would not seem to play an important part in business, and yet no man can ever tell when its knowledge may be of advantage, or its lack may turn the scale against him.
Some useful facts about Arabia
- In Arabia, most people are Muslims. Muslims is also spelt as Moslem. Their religion, Islam, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad between 610 and 632 A.D.
- The holy book of Muslims is called the Quran. Quran is the foundation and primary source of doctrine in Islam. Fundamental to the believer is the fact that the Quran is the infallible word of God. It contains among other things a comprehensive code of conduct transforming human experience and knowledge into an order reflecting all aspects of life.
- The public place of worship is the Mosque which is attended mainly by men. Women either pray at home or use the special place allotted in most large Mosques. The call to prayer is chanted by the Muezzin from the Minaret.
- On entering the Mosque and before praying the Muslim removes his shoes and washes his hands, face and feet. Prayer is led by the Imam.
- Friday is the holy day of week, although a Muslim must pray five times every day at : Dawn, Noon, Afternoon, Sunset and Evening . Daily prayers do not have to be said in a Mosque. Muslims may pray wherever they happen to be at the time of prayer. This may be in an office or beside a road; don't be surprised, therefore, when you first see it. Arabia it is a common everyday sight.
- A Muslim always faces in the direction of the holy city of Makkah, when he prays.
- Arabic is the language of the Holy Quran. The script, written from right to left, has an alphabet of consonants. It is by no means easy to learn although the rudiments of the spoken language can be quickly mastered if you get down to it.
- The pleasantries are included in subsequent chapters and if the foreigner takes the trouble to learn them he can be sure of an enthusiastic reception. In the author's experience, one is always given greater credit than is justified by one's efforts.
- Women in many Arab countries wear a black cloak and may also be veiled ( in purdah ). In other Arab countries however, women dress in the European fashion. In any case, women are viewed in a special way in Arabia. One might for example, enquire after the health of the family of an Arab but not specifically of his wife.
- The thing most likely to impress you about the Arab is his hospitality but his whole way of life, stemming as it does from his ancient heritage as well as from his environment may well catch your imagination.
Islam demands from its believers that they establish peace in the world, promote love and make such examples of themselves that others, knowing that they are Muslims, feel at peace and harmony in that knowledge. This is the true Islam and what it means to be a Muslim.
(Reference: Dubai City online)
Dried Gabi Leaves (Dried Taro Leaves)
Our Dried Taro "Gabi" Leaves are organically and naturally grown in the Philippines.
We are very excited to launch it this year hopefully the 3rd quarter of 2011.
We'll be posting more photos of this Dried Taro leaves tomorrow-
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Halal-Certified Products - for Middle East countries
Consuming Halal-certified products is essential to the practice of the Islamic faith.
It is important for Middle East countries to ensure that the meat and poultry they consume are genuinely Halal-certified to adhere to the lawful food prescribed for Muslim countries.
With this in mind, more and more food manufacturers acknowledge the importance and the salability of Halal-certified products.
To date, the total value of the global Halal food market is worth about US$ 632 billion based on industry reports.
Since our main source is from the Philippines, we coordinate with various government agencies in doing business with Philippine companies that are Halal-certified.
“Looking at the results of the two business missions organized by the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) last year, we can say that Halal-certified products have huge potential in the world Halal market,” shared Sue Guru, Focal Halal Person of DTI.
CITEM will also promote Halal products in a special pavilion in the country’s trade show for food, the International Food Exhibition Philippines (IFEX). IFEX Philippines is the country’s premier trade event for quality and delectable food ideas scheduled on 6-8 May at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City.
Moreover, the 3-day event will feature the Halal Pavilion, a creative display of Halal certified products from the Philippines that cover a wide range of food categories.
(notes from IFEX)
It is important for Middle East countries to ensure that the meat and poultry they consume are genuinely Halal-certified to adhere to the lawful food prescribed for Muslim countries.
With this in mind, more and more food manufacturers acknowledge the importance and the salability of Halal-certified products.
To date, the total value of the global Halal food market is worth about US$ 632 billion based on industry reports.
Since our main source is from the Philippines, we coordinate with various government agencies in doing business with Philippine companies that are Halal-certified.
“Looking at the results of the two business missions organized by the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) last year, we can say that Halal-certified products have huge potential in the world Halal market,” shared Sue Guru, Focal Halal Person of DTI.
CITEM will also promote Halal products in a special pavilion in the country’s trade show for food, the International Food Exhibition Philippines (IFEX). IFEX Philippines is the country’s premier trade event for quality and delectable food ideas scheduled on 6-8 May at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City.
Moreover, the 3-day event will feature the Halal Pavilion, a creative display of Halal certified products from the Philippines that cover a wide range of food categories.
(notes from IFEX)
International Food Exhibition-Manila, Philippines - May 12-14, 2011
We are very excited to be part of the VIBuyer Program attending this International Food Exhibition.
IFEX Philippines provides gainful business opportunities for importers, exporters, retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers eyeing both the local and international markets. Evolving and expanding, this event features shows within a show that highlight fresh ideas, valuable industry information, and exciting competitions and activities.
| Fair Title: | 8th INTERNATIONAL FOOD EXHIBITION (IFEX) PHILIPPINES 2011 |
| Fair Date: | 12-14 May 2011 ( Thursday– Saturday) |
| Venue: | Halls 1-4 SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines |
| Organizer: | CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXPOSITIONS AND MISSIONS (CITEM) Attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI, Philippines) |
| Co-Organizer: | Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Service - Department of Agriculture (DA-AMAS) |
| Show hours: | 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. , Thursday-Saturday |
| Fair Admission: | Exporters & Mindanao Halls : 1st & 2nd Day – Trade visitors only 3rd Day – Open to the Public International Hall : 1st to 3rd Day - Open to Trade Visitors and Public Retailers Hall : 1st to 3rd Day - Open to Trade Visitors and Public |
- Tropical Beverages, Wines & Spirits
- Coffee, Tea & Cocoa
- Natural, Herbal and Organic Products
- Sugar & Sweeteners
- Natural, Organic & Herbal Products
- Fine Food & Specialties
- Meat & Poultry
- Fresh & Processed Tropical Fruits & Vegetables
- Fresh , Frozen, & Value-Added Marine Products
- Flours, Starch, & Cereal
- Culinary Schools
- Seasonings, Oils, Flavors, Additives, Colors & Gelatins
- Testing Laboratories
- Food Machineries & Equipment, Kitchen Equipment & Machinery
- Postharvest Technology & Equipment
- Packaging Materials (Glass, Papers, Metal, Plastic)
- Allied Products and Services
- Shipping & Forwading
- Storage
- Food Franchising
Men and Women Entrepreneurs Rock the World!
Our Management Team consisting of men & women leaders --
We create jobs in America!
We are the solution!
We create jobs in America!
We are the solution!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Friday, January 21, 2011
The Nature's Market Logo
We're almost there finishing up our logo--It's simple but speaks well about our company --Bringing to you all-natural food flavors from around the world--
So, please stay tuned!
So, please stay tuned!
Philippine Mangoes, Mango Chips, Sun-Dried Mangoes
Philippine Mangoes--The sweetest mango in the world!
One of the natural food products that we will be importing to the US and other countries is the Philippine Mango. It is considered the sweetest and most delicious mango all over the world.
We're very excited to have all our products be in various natural food chains & market, ice cream & candy shops, restaurants etc. In the meantime, take a look at these photos of the Philippine Mango
photos courtesy of NNeo
One of the natural food products that we will be importing to the US and other countries is the Philippine Mango. It is considered the sweetest and most delicious mango all over the world.
We're very excited to have all our products be in various natural food chains & market, ice cream & candy shops, restaurants etc. In the meantime, take a look at these photos of the Philippine Mango
Thursday, January 20, 2011
What is the key to a successful business?
Based on my experience, the most valuable key to a successful business is the passion for it. Passion gives me the energy to wake up excited to start my day as an entrepreneur. I always look forward to a day at work, what my plans are, what is it going to be, what challenges will I encounter and how do I tackle those challenges.
Hard work, perseverance, creativity, and the belief that you are doing something worthwhile not just for the business, for your family, for the people & economy but using your potentials to live up to your dreams.
Then, as the previous vlog of Angela Jia Kim of Savor the Success - (our group for women entrepreneurs)she is talking about the right path--the passion to do the thing that makes the business flow easily.
Then let's talk about my passion--for crafts & creativity, promoting Eco-Friendly and organic products in the market, following the Fair Trade practices, Giving Back, cooking, food, travel, family and friends---That is the reason we are expanding our product line from crafts to natural and organic food.
It is probably a big step outside our comfort zone but we think positive--It will be a success!
Hard work, perseverance, creativity, and the belief that you are doing something worthwhile not just for the business, for your family, for the people & economy but using your potentials to live up to your dreams.
Then, as the previous vlog of Angela Jia Kim of Savor the Success - (our group for women entrepreneurs)she is talking about the right path--the passion to do the thing that makes the business flow easily.
Then let's talk about my passion--for crafts & creativity, promoting Eco-Friendly and organic products in the market, following the Fair Trade practices, Giving Back, cooking, food, travel, family and friends---That is the reason we are expanding our product line from crafts to natural and organic food.
It is probably a big step outside our comfort zone but we think positive--It will be a success!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Inspiration in Business!
Being a member of Savor the Success, a premier network for women entrepreneurs, I get the chance to meet, share and get ideas from other successful women on how they deal with the daily life & business.
Angela Jia Kim, our founder is always been an inspiration to me. Her enthusiasm, hard work, perseverance gives me courage to step up to the goal I want in the business.
It started from a vision and challenge in life--like the vision book Angela was discussing about in her previous vlog. I set the vision, then the challenges and now how to grow and expand the business to a higher level.
Angela Jia Kim, our founder is always been an inspiration to me. Her enthusiasm, hard work, perseverance gives me courage to step up to the goal I want in the business.
It started from a vision and challenge in life--like the vision book Angela was discussing about in her previous vlog. I set the vision, then the challenges and now how to grow and expand the business to a higher level.
How do I stay focus in Business?
Being an entrepreneur does not mean that I am strong all the way through--
There are times that my personal life seems dark so how do I stay positive and separate my personal life
from affecting my decision making in business?
One main thing that I do is stay positive. I try to divert into thinking positive about what I can do better in business than dwell on my personal problems. This way, I become more productive and stay focus and make better decisions.
Another way is Giving Back to the community. It is the fulfillment of seeing the smile in someone's face that you had done something good.
Take time for yourself, like a vacation, a weekend get-away or just getting together with family & friends.
You'll realize that your energy will be back--
Most important factor based on my experience is thinking of your self-worth and respect. Thinking about how you've fulfilled your dream of being an entrepreneur despite the hurdles in life--then you'll realized that you're back on track again!
There are times that my personal life seems dark so how do I stay positive and separate my personal life
from affecting my decision making in business?
One main thing that I do is stay positive. I try to divert into thinking positive about what I can do better in business than dwell on my personal problems. This way, I become more productive and stay focus and make better decisions.
Another way is Giving Back to the community. It is the fulfillment of seeing the smile in someone's face that you had done something good.
Take time for yourself, like a vacation, a weekend get-away or just getting together with family & friends.
You'll realize that your energy will be back--
Most important factor based on my experience is thinking of your self-worth and respect. Thinking about how you've fulfilled your dream of being an entrepreneur despite the hurdles in life--then you'll realized that you're back on track again!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Being an Entrepreneur--Being a Leader!
Being an Entrepreneur is not just about money--
Its about leadership, about time for family, friends and career--
It is what life is all about!
Its about leadership, about time for family, friends and career--
It is what life is all about!
Women Entrepreneurs Rock the World!
WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS ROCK THE WORLD!
We create jobs for America!
We are the solution!
Coming from humble beginnings, I dreamed of being part of the world of entrepreneurs--I worked hard---I'm inspired, I give back--My dream is now a reality!
Good luck and follow your dreams!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
OPEN-by American Express
OPEN- by American Express
How do you start the Year 2011?
This year our company have decided to move outside of our comfort zone--expand into food industry--It will be a big step from our usual business but we're all excited about it!
Please stay tuned---We'll keep you posted--
Internation Food Exhibition-Manila, Philippines
International Food Exhibition Philippines - May 12-14, 2011
We're very excited to be one of the attendees of this International Food Exhibition in Manila,Philippines on May 12-14, 2011.
This will also involve other international exhibitors around the globe to showcase their products.
We'll keep you posted!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Information on Philippine Bird'sEye Pepper (Tagalog-Siling Labuyo)
Bird's eye chili (Thai: พริกขี้หนู, RTGS: phrik khi nu, IPA: [pʰrík kʰîː nǔː], literal: mouse dropping chili; Tagalog: siling labuyo) is a chili pepper of the species Capsicum frutescens L. in the family Solanaceae, commonly found in Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Singapore.
It can also be found in India, mainly Kerala, where it is used in traditional dishes of the Kerala cuisine (pronounced in Malayalam as kanthari mulagu). This species (known as kochchi in sinhalese) is also found in rural areas of Sri Lanka, where it is used as a substitute for green chillies. It is also a main ingredient in kochchi sambal, a salad made using freshly scraped coconut ground with thai chillies and seasoned with salt and lime juice.
The term Bird's eye chili is also used for the North American Chiltepin pepper, both due to their small round shape and because they're widely spread by birds.
The bird's eye chili plant is a perennial with small, tapering fruits, often 2-3, at a node. The fruits of most varieties are red, some are yellow, purple or black. The fruits are very pungent. The flowers are greenish white or yellowish white.
Taxonomically, it has long been thought that the bird's eye chili belongs to Capsicum frutescens L.,but there are now some who list the bird's eye chili as belonging to Capsicum chinense.
The bird's eye chili is small but packs quite a lot of heat. At one time it was even listed as the hottest chili in the Guinness Book of World Records but other hotter varieties of chili have since been identified. It measures around 50,000-100,000 Scoville units which is at the lower end of the range for the hotter Habanero chili.
Bird's eye Peppers
- Plant height - up to 2meters
- Stem color - Green
- Leaf color - Green
- Leaf size - 3–8 cm by 2–4 cm
- Fruit color at maturity - green, orange and red
- Fruit shape - conical
- Fruit length - 2–3 cm
- Fruit width at shoulder - .5 cm
- Fruit weight - 2-3 grams
- Fruit surface - smooth
- Seed color - Light tan
- Seeds per chili - 10-20
The fruit of the bird's eye chili is popularly used as a spice and as a chili condiment in Filipino, Indonesian, Laotian, Malaysian, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine. It is what gives local dishes, such as the Filipino bicol express, their fiery zing.
The chilies can also be used to flavor vinegar.
The leaves are also edible and can be eaten as a vegetable, for instance in the Filipino dish tinola.
Philippine Chili Peppers (Tagalog-Siling Labuyo, Bicol-Sambalas)
Philippine Bird's Eye Pepper
We are busy, busy working on a lot of research and certifications for the approval of the importation of this Philippine Bird's Eye Pepper from the Philippines. In the meantime, we want to share with you some photos that we have research on this naturally grown Philippine Bird's Eye Pepper. This will give you some ideas how they are grown and shipped and then to your everyday dishes.
We will be updating and posting more information and photos as we go along our progress in our approval by the US Department of Agriculture & US Food & Drug Administration.
Photos of the farm courtesy of R. Tequillo
We are busy, busy working on a lot of research and certifications for the approval of the importation of this Philippine Bird's Eye Pepper from the Philippines. In the meantime, we want to share with you some photos that we have research on this naturally grown Philippine Bird's Eye Pepper. This will give you some ideas how they are grown and shipped and then to your everyday dishes.
We will be updating and posting more information and photos as we go along our progress in our approval by the US Department of Agriculture & US Food & Drug Administration.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Pili Nut - Dried without shell
Dried and Shelled Pili Nuts
Its been ages that I have not been to Bicol region where this type of nut grows abundantly but I can vividly remember how this Pili Nuts taste and look like. I tell you, they are much better than macadamia nuts and pine nuts. Although, we have seen some Pili Nut in some Asian stores, they are mainly sugar or caramel coated. We are really looking forward to introduce our Pili Nuts to the US, Canada & Qatar market.
We'll keep you posted. We will also be featuring more information of our products, its uses, recipes and much more, so please stay tuned with us!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Philippine Chili Peppers (Tagalog-Siling Labuyo, Bicol-Sambalas)
One of our main products to import and sell here in the US, Canada & Qatar is this DRIED PHILIPPINE CHILI PEPPERS (Tagalog term-Siling Labuyo, Bicol term-Sambalas)
This type of pepper is so small but considered as one of the spiciest compared to the other mexican chilis available locally here in the US.
While we gather more information that we can share with you about this product of ours, we would like you to enjoy these photos of a typical Filipino breakfast that includes this pepper.
This type of pepper is so small but considered as one of the spiciest compared to the other mexican chilis available locally here in the US.
While we gather more information that we can share with you about this product of ours, we would like you to enjoy these photos of a typical Filipino breakfast that includes this pepper.
Ph
Photos courtesy of 80 Breakfasts
Sunday, January 2, 2011
MANUEL ALA-Director, Sales & Business Development for State of Qatar
Manuel Ala
Director, Sales & Business Development
State of Qatar
Manuel Ala joined The Nature’s Market in December 2010, and contributes over 12 years of international trading and marketing devoted to Middle Eastern countries such as Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and State of Qatar.
He is a specialist in the areas of international trading & distribution of agricultural products from all over the world to Qatar. He also brings his extensive management & financial skills from his work experience in the banking industry.
Manuel oversees The Nature’s Market Sales, Marketing and Merchandising department and is responsible for developing the company products recognition in Qatar. Manuel holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration major in Marketing & Management.
Manuel is also an active leader in various social organizations. He has been the President of PIBQ (Pag-Iribang Bicolnon Qatar) a non-profit organization that helps and support various projects in the Philippines for the sake of alleviating poverty.
An avid fan of sports, he is also active in basketball tournaments in Qatar.
Manuel is also an active leader in various social organizations. He has been the President of PIBQ (Pag-Iribang Bicolnon Qatar) a non-profit organization that helps and support various projects in the Philippines for the sake of alleviating poverty.
An avid fan of sports, he is also active in basketball tournaments in Qatar.
Our Top 4 Products
Happy New Year everyone!
Importing and Exporting food products to the US is quite tedious. There are so many procedures and strict rules to follow to be able to have food product be available to our customers.
Here's a list of our initial Top 4 products that we are working on to be available in the US and Qatar market:
#1 PILI NUT - Dried Plain or Dried Salted
#2 PHILIPPINE CHILI PEPPERS - Dried
#3 GABI LEAVES (TARO) - Dried
#4 PHILIPPINE MANGOES - Dried chips
Importing and Exporting food products to the US is quite tedious. There are so many procedures and strict rules to follow to be able to have food product be available to our customers.
Here's a list of our initial Top 4 products that we are working on to be available in the US and Qatar market:
#1 PILI NUT - Dried Plain or Dried Salted
#2 PHILIPPINE CHILI PEPPERS - Dried
#3 GABI LEAVES (TARO) - Dried
#4 PHILIPPINE MANGOES - Dried chips
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