DAVAO CITY — Avante Agri-Products, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 11, is spearheading a major push to elevate the region's agricultural sector onto the global stage. The initiative focuses on expanding international export channels, ensuring long-term food security, and empowering local farming communities.
Securing Global Market Linkages
Recently, the local exporter secured a significant three-year supply and purchase contract with Auckland-based Fresh Produce Group NZ Ltd. The agreement was finalized during the Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong, marking a crucial milestone for regional agribusiness and international trade expansion.
This newly established partnership highlights the region's robust export capabilities and commitment to delivering high-quality produce. It serves as a testament to the hard work of local farmers and the strategic vision of agribusiness leaders in Davao to compete globally.
Launching a US Subsidiary
To solidify this international partnership, representatives from the New Zealand company conducted an extensive buyer visit to Davao. The delegation explored further market opportunities for various fresh and processed agricultural goods sourced directly from local farming communities.
Simultaneously, Avante marked the official launch of its United States-based subsidiary, Avante Agri-Products U.S.A. LLC. This strategic move is designed to broaden the distribution network and market presence of Philippine agricultural products across the highly competitive United States market.
Exploring New Export Opportunities
The three-year agreement primarily covers the export of premium Davao-sourced Saba bananas and mangoes directly to New Zealand. This deal ensures a steady demand for local harvests, providing agribusiness stakeholders with reliable income streams, sustainable growth, and long-term market stability.
By establishing these vital international market linkages, DA-11 aims to drive local production upscaling and elevate food safety standards. The goal is to ensure the highly profitable integration of local farmers into the competitive global supply chain while introducing Davao produce to new consumers worldwide.
Empowering Local Farmers
DA-11 Regional Executive Director Macario D. Gonzaga underscored the vital role of private-public synergy in elevating agricultural competitiveness. He emphasized that government efforts alone are insufficient to achieve the ambitious vision of global food security and sustained economic prosperity for local farmers.
Gonzaga assured continuous support for farmers through better production inputs, modern post-harvest infrastructure, and strict quality assurance. These initiatives aim to facilitate smooth trade, generate additional livelihood opportunities, and strengthen the agricultural backbone of the entire region.
Driving Rural Development
These dual export milestones underscore Davao's growing potential as a reliable source of globally competitive products. By forging strong international partnerships, the region can continuously drive rural development and improve the quality of life for agricultural workers.
The integration of local farmers into the global market does not just generate revenue; it also encourages the adoption of modern farming techniques. This ensures that local producers remain highly competitive and capable of meeting strict international quality standards.
