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Philippines expands agri trade partnerships

Philippines’ agri attachés boost exports, secure market access, and strengthen international partnerships in key Asian markets. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

In 2024, the Department of Agriculture (DA) achieved significant milestones, thanks to the efforts of agricultural attachés stationed in key markets across Asia

Their work has played a critical role in boosting the Philippines’ agricultural exports and fostering international partnerships

“By securing tens of billions of pesos in export sales, these accomplishments support our agriculture and fisheries sector and contribute to narrowing the trade deficit. Our attachés also fortified bilateral and multilateral ties, benefiting millions of Filipino farmers and fishers,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr.

In China, DA Counsellor Jerome Bunyi was instrumental in the Philippines' successful participation at the China International Import Expo, where 17 exhibitors generated an estimated USD 1.6 billion in sales and sales pledges. Popular Filipino products like bananas, durian, pineapples, and coconuts saw strong demand, underscoring the growing interest in Philippine agricultural products.

In Japan, DA attaché Maria Alilia Maghirang successfully secured market access for Philippine Hass avocados and facilitated access for other products like bananas, pineapples, and mangoes. She also led Philippine promotional activities at FOODEX Japan 2024 and the International Seafood Show Tokyo 2024, generating over P361 million in sales.

In South Korea, DA attaché Lev Nikko Macalintal was crucial in the establishment of the Korea Agricultural Machinery Industrial Complex in Cabanatuan, aimed at boosting local agricultural productivity. At Seoul Food 2024, he also facilitated sales worth P297.27 million.

In Vietnam, DA attaché Annalyn Lopez helped secure market access for four Philippine fishery establishments, expanded durian markets in Malaysia, and facilitated the Philippines' participation in the Thaifex ANUGA 2024 trade show, which generated over P5 billion in sales.