PHILIPPINES — The Department of Agriculture returned to Asia Fruit Logistica after nearly a decade, joining the September 2 to 4 trade show at AsiaWorld-Expo. The delegation brought Philippine fruit exporters face-to-face with international buyers in one of the continent's major fresh produce markets.
A Strategic Return to the Global Stage
Undersecretary for High Value Export Crops and Agri-Fishery Export Development and Promotion Philip C. Young led the Philippine delegation. The participation aimed to open more overseas markets for high-value export crops, build commercial partnerships, and gather market intelligence to help exporters meet international demand and standards.
The Philippine pavilion showcased Cavendish and Cardava bananas, fresh durian, fresh and frozen mangoes, dragon fruit, pomelo, and other high-value crops. The Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association and the Philippines Banana Council Inc. presented Cavendish bananas. The Durian Exporters Association of the Philippines Inc. showcased fresh durian.
A Strong Message from Agriculture Leadership
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel emphasized the broader impact of expanding exports. He said opening more overseas markets gives farmers bigger, more reliable markets while raising the value of their products and bringing more income to rural communities.
He noted that the country cannot afford to remain with an annual agricultural trade deficit of around $11 billion. He said growing exports would help farmers earn more while making Philippine agriculture more productive and competitive.
Hon. Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza led the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, joined by Young, Philippine Consul General Romulo Victor M. Israel Jr., and Agricultural Counsellor Marlito C. Cabuños. Industry leaders, exporters, and representatives of Philippine fruit industry associations also participated.
Diverse Products and Industry Support
The National Mango Farmers and Stakeholders Federation Inc. featured fresh and frozen mangoes. The Philippine Dragon Fruit Growers Association promoted fresh dragon fruit. These associations represent the breadth of the country's high-value crop sector.
Young said the return to the trade show is intended to translate product showcases into concrete business opportunities. He emphasized that the Philippines is participating not merely to exhibit but to forge durable global partnerships and secure vital market shares.
Tackling Logistics and Post-Harvest Challenges
As part of efforts to address logistical and post-harvest challenges, Young met with representatives of logistics companies and shipping services. They explored handling and preservation technologies to maintain the freshness of export products during transit. The initial collaboration will focus on dragon fruit, with potential application to other commodities.
A virtual training is also being arranged for DA offices and agencies involved in high-value crops, research, and standards. Participating exhibitors reported strong interest from international buyers. Some orders were deferred or declined because demand exceeded available supply capacity, underscoring the need to strengthen production and export capacity.
A Growing Push for Agricultural Exports
The initiative is part of the government's broader effort to expand agricultural exports and create more opportunities for Filipino farmers and agribusinesses. The DA has identified 16 priority export commodities for its overseas market development program.
Asia Fruit Logistica 2026 featured more than 760 exhibitors and around 14,000 buyers from 80 countries. The event covers the fresh produce supply chain, providing opportunities for exporters to meet buyers, distributors, retailers, and other industry players. The Philippines' return signals a renewed commitment to competing in the global marketplace.
