Bananas: Decline in Volume and Value for Philippine Exports

2020 has not been a good year for bananas from the Philippines. Production declined, as did the volume (-18.35%) and value (-20.6%) of exports.

 

 

 

According to PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority) data, banana exports reached 3.595 million tonnes. That is -18.35% compared to the record level of 4.403 million tonnes recorded in 2019.

 

 

 

This decline in volumes is accompanied by a decline in value, banana exports in 2020 totaled $1.552 billion. That is -20.6% compared to the $1.953 billion recorded in 2019.

 

 

 

In terms of destinations, Japan is the Philippines' 1st market, ahead of China, which has occupied this leading position since 2018. Exports to Japan reached 1.345 million tonnes, ie 18% more than the 1.139 million tonnes shipped to China.

 

 

 

For the year 2021, the outlook would be "not promising" according to PBGEA. The organization fears that other banana-exporting countries, having filled the supply gaps in these markets, will continue to strengthen their presence and decrease the share of Philippine bananas in the future.