The Department of Agriculture (DA) is looking to open up the Philippine agricultural market to Egyptian consumers, thus giving way to more investment opportunities that would be beneficial to both countries.

Agriculture Secretary William Dar and new Egyptian Ambassador to the Philippines Ahmed Shehabeld met online on Monday, June 7 to discuss possible cross-market access and investment opportunities between the two nations.

“We are enthusiastic to further open up and hoping that both sides will benefit, and look at every opportunity where we can really open more market access between two countries,” Dar said.

The secretary expressed his interest in future cooperation for the promotion of agricultural products, specifically desiccated coconuts, tuna (prepared or preserved), bananas (fresh or dried), and coconut oil, among other goods.

He said the department will also need investment assistance particularly on food processing and logistics support to the agri-business corridor in New Clark City.

“ late 2019, a team from the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) visited Egypt’s production areas and processing and packing houses of specific crops such as citrus and grapes as part of the risk assessment,” he said.

A work plan for the entry of Egyptian citrus has been prepared by the BPI through its National Plant Quarantine Division, Dar bared. The documents have already been submitted for the review of concerned Egyptian authorities.

Meanwhile, Shehabeld assured the secretary that he was open to work with the DA, particularly in exploring all aspects involving agriculture.