DAVAO — The Davao Region is shipping an increasingly diverse basket of agricultural goods to discerning international buyers, with fresh pineapples, durian, cacao, and even Philippine eel landing on foreign shelves. The expansion signals the region’s growing ability to meet strict global standards.
Breaking Into New Markets
A 40‑foot container carrying 1,005 boxes of fresh pineapples recently sailed to Saudi Arabia. The same Middle Eastern destination also received 20 metric tons of cardaba bananas and singkamas (jicama). These shipments are no longer one‑off trials but the start of regular commercial trade that connects Davao’s farms directly to Gulf consumers.
On the other side of the globe, New Zealand welcomed two high‑value Davao products. Premium cacao beans entered the country’s artisan chocolate market, while cardaba bananas reached Auckland, passing some of the world’s toughest biosecurity checks. The approval validates the quality and safety protocols that Filipino growers have adopted in recent years.
A Diverse Export Basket
The iconic Puyat durian, Davao’s celebrated king of fruits, made its first trial voyage to Oman. The test shipment paves the way for larger consignments if Omani consumers respond well. Japan, meanwhile, received Hass avocados sourced from Davao and neighboring Mindanao areas, tapping into rising demand for healthy, ready‑to‑eat produce.
Perhaps the most unexpected breakthrough is the Philippines’ maiden export of live and processed Philippine eel to China. Known locally as igat or casili, the eel now has a processing market in the world’s second‑largest economy. This aquatic shipment opens an entirely new category for the country’s seafood trade, highlighting Mindanao’s rich inland fisheries.
Empowering Farmers and MSMEs
Department of Agriculture‑XI Regional Executive Director Macario Gonzaga said the collective efforts of farmers, exporters, industry partners, and government agencies continue to open international doors. He made the statement during the opening of the Mindanao Trade Expo Kadayawan Festival Trade Fair at Ayala Abreeza Mall.
Gonzaga emphasized that trade fairs play a vital role in turning possibilities into contracts. Producers can introduce new products, study market trends, and connect directly with buyers and investors without intermediaries. These platforms empower micro, small, and medium enterprises to showcase what Davao can offer on a global stage.
A Message of Quality and Innovation
The director stressed that the milestones send a clear message: by investing in quality, innovation, and strong partnerships, Mindanao products can compete with the best in the world. Every shipment that passes foreign inspections reinforces the region’s reputation and encourages more growers to pursue export certification.
The simultaneous entry into diverse markets — from Saudi Arabia’s wholesale fruit sector to New Zealand’s gourmet cacao industry — demonstrates the versatility of Davao’s agricultural base. It also reduces dependence on a single buyer, insulating farmers from price fluctuations and market saturation in one destination.
