Philippines calls on Japan for equal opportunity in banana market

To strengthen banana exports, Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. met with Japanese officials in Tokyo, urging a review of the bilateral trade agreement as the country struggles with declining market share in Japan due to past quality concerns and rising competition.

Tiu Laurel warned that declining exports could hurt the livelihoods of over 700,000 Filipinos, especially in Mindanao, where bananas are a major industry. He called for lower tariffs to keep Philippine bananas competitive, attract investment, and support job creation.

Japan once relied on the Philippines for 90% of its banana supply in 2012, but that dropped to 75% by 2024. Japan plans to cut tariffs on bananas from other countries like Vietnam by 2028, and the Philippines is asking for the same treatment.

So far, Japan hasn't agreed to a formal review of the trade pact, suggesting the issue be discussed under the broader RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) trade framework. But the Philippines prefers direct talks, arguing that not all countries have the same trade needs.

The visit reinforced the Philippines' push for fair trade terms, stronger market access, and deeper economic ties with Japan.

source: gmanetwork.com

photo: ifexconnect.com