The Philippine government has started the exportation of a large variety of fresh avocados through a ceremonial send-off at the KTC Port Tibungco, Davao City on Sept. 30, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) said.
DA-BPI director Gerald Glenn Panganiban said the first batch of the fresh Hass Avocado, a large-sized avocado weighing 200 to 300 grams, is expected to arrive in Pyongtaek Port, South Korea on Oct. 8 and was exported through the National Plant Quarantine Services Division (NPQSD).
The exportation process, seen as a significant market access achievement, started on June 19 through an agreement between the Department of Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) of the Republic of Korea and DA-BPI. It came into effect on Sept. 8
On Sept. 25, the Philippines, through the DA-BPI officially expressed its intent to export fresh Hass avocado fruits to Korea, responding to the request of Dole Philippines.
Panganiban played an instrumental role in expediting the market access request by incorporating this agenda during the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) which was attended by several member countries, including the top management of APQA.
This exportation marks the beginning of a fruitful trade relationship between the two nations as the people of South Korea can finally taste the creamy and nutrient-rich Hass avocados from the Philippines.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains committed to the acceleration of agricultural development by opening the country’s doors to Philippine fruit exports. Under his leadership, the Philippines is continuously making progress in creating opportunities in the global market and solidifying its capability to trade top-quality agricultural products.
Present during the send-off ceremony were DA-BPI Assistant Director for Regulatory Services Ruel C. Gesmundo, DA-Region XI Director Abel James Moteagudo, Dole Philippines Senior Vice President and Stanfilco Division General Manager Tetsuya Kitae.