Philippines seeks to export mangoes and bananas to Egypt

After securing market access for durian, the Philippines is now working to export other high-value crops such as mangoes and bananas to Egypt.

According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, recent talks with Egyptian Ambassador Nader Nabil Zaki focused on expanding agricultural trade between the two countries. Laurel said that following Egypt’s approval of durian exports last month, he is hopeful that similar agreements will follow for mangoes and bananas.

The durian agreement was finalised after nearly two years of regulatory processes, including pest risk assessments and cooperation between Philippine and Egyptian authorities. The Department of Agriculture stated that this reflects growing trust in the Philippines’ plant health and safety systems.

In exchange, the Philippines is reviewing the import of Egyptian grapes and ware potatoes. Pest risk assessments and food safety checks are still in progress. Discussions have also started on importing garlic and onions from Egypt, with technical cooperation planned.

Current agricultural trade between the Philippines and Egypt is valued at around $7.5 million per year. Main Philippine exports include desiccated coconut and carrageenan, while Egypt exports dried kidney beans, soups, and broths.

The Department of Agriculture is also looking to increase trade ties with North Africa and sees Egypt as a potential entry point to wider markets in Africa and the Middle East.

In addition to Egypt, the Philippines recently began exporting fresh mangoes to Italy and is in talks to enter the durian market in New Zealand.

source: mb.com.ph

photo: nolisoli.ph