International product development specialist Detlef Klatt from Germany is set to transform Manila Fame with a special setting of handcrafted tabletops.

Manila Fame will feature a collection of tabletops consisting of dinnerware, flatware and other table accessories, produced by 17 different home design companies using a range of materials and techniques. These were developed under the Design for Exports program of the country’s premier design and lifestyle event Manila FAME for its 60th edition.

The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (Citem), the export promotions arm of the Department of Trade and Industry, organizes the biannual Manila Fame, which continues to nurture and promote Philippine design in the global market.

Design for Exports provides Philippine exporters, manufacturers and designers with a full range of design and product development services.

“Citem will once again excite buyers and guests with the newly revived category of tabletops. It is equally important to increase the number of exhibitors carrying ceramics and pottery and boost the product development for natural fibers,” said Citem executive director Rosvi Gaetos.

Klatt worked with leading home design companies including Asia Ceramics, Asia Embroidery, Basket and Weaves, Bon-Ace Fashion Tools, Celestial Arts, Chanalli, CSM Philippines, Filtra, Globeasia Nature Industries, Maria Vinecraft, MCCA Industrial Corp., Oricon, Prado Filipino Artisans, Robles Heritage, Shell Arts, Shelmed Cottage Treasures, and Tadeco Home, and assisted them in maximizing business opportunities through product development, market intelligence and buyer matching.

As part of Klatt’s assistance on material and product development, he visited participating companies located in Bicol, Cebu, Davao, Metro Manila, Pampanga and Tarlac where he did an evaluation on the materials and techniques utilized by each company.

“I know the potential of this country as a source of finely crafted products. In the Philippines are materials which you will not find anywhere else. On one side, the materials and techniques show creativity. On the other side, each has a character and tells a story,” Klatt said.

The 60th Manila Fame is slated at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City from Oct. 16 to 19.