Philippine banana exporters have signed new supply contracts with Hong Kong and New Zealand companies to ship Cardaba bananas, also known as saba, following the country’s return to the Asia Fruit Logistica exhibition after a 10-year absence, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). The agreements broaden export channels for the country’s high-value crops amid growing international demand.
Export Orders and Fruit Sales at Asia Fruit Logistica
Philippine fruit sales generated $290.71 million in orders during the exhibition in Hong Kong, according to Arnel V. De Mesa, DA spokesman and agriculture assistant secretary for special concerns and official development assistance. Durian led the booked orders at $206.23 million. Cavendish bananas followed with $11 million, while Cardaba bananas secured $3.08 million in orders. Negotiated sales for dragon fruit reached $1.02 million, and mangoes brought in $170,800.
Additional reporting notes that the deals formalize exclusive distribution in Hong Kong and New Zealand, following an initial 20-tonne shipment of Saba bananas to Saudi Arabia in August that consisted of around 1,540 boxes (13 kg each) with a 35-day transit time. Under the agreements, Cozy and Korner Trading Co. in Hong Kong and Fresh Produce Group Ltd. in New Zealand will receive products from Avante Agri-Products Philippines Inc.
DA Strategy and Upcoming Agricultural Initiatives
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. pointed out that providing farmers with larger and more dependable international markets elevates product value and enhances earnings for countryside populations. Mr. Laurel emphasized that the country cannot afford an annual agricultural trade deficit of around $11 billion, noting that those resources could otherwise support investment in agriculture, including irrigation.
To continue expanding overseas markets, Mr. De Mesa stated that the DA delegation will travel to Rome this October to attend the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations’ Hand-in-Hand Initiative Investment Forum 2026. At the forum, the department will pitch mangoes, seaweed, coffee, and cacao for export.
Market Challenges and Support for Agri-Exports
While demand for Philippine produce is increasing, Mr. De Mesa acknowledged that the challenge is how to meet the demand and achieve the quality required by our international market. Strict phytosanitary protocols and certification costs present a binding constraint on smallholder export participation, and meeting international standards demands increased expenditure on disease management and post-harvest handling.
Deputy House Speaker Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza inaugurated the Philippine pavilion during the exhibition with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and committed to backing and securing additional funding for the agricultural export initiative of the DA.
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