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US agricultural trade mission to Manila set in July
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USDA invited applications from US exporters to join the agricultural trade mission to Manila on July 18-21
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US agricultural and food exports to the Philippines averaged $3.1 billion annually in the last five years
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In 2020, the Philippines exported $10.02 billion worth of major commodities to the United States while it imported US goods valued at $6.92 billion
A US trade mission is being organized by the US Department of Agriculture to tap into the market potential of the Philippines for agricultural exports.
The USDA on May 12 invited applications from US exporters to join the agricultural trade mission to Manila on July 18-21.
“The mission will provide US growers, producers, and exporters the opportunity to explore a thriving market that is expected to emerge from the coronavirus pandemic with one of the strongest growth forecasts in Asia,” the USDA said in a press release.
It said the Philippines is the eighth-largest export market for US agricultural and food exports, averaging $3.1 billion annually in the last five years.
In 2020, the Philippines exported major commodities to the US valued at $10.02 billion and imported from the US $6.92 billion worth of goods, Philippine Statistics Authority data show.
The USDA said the Philippines offers US agribusinesses tremendous export potential thanks to its young and fast-growing population, strong consumer preference for US foods and beverages, and robust service-based economy, which has reported increased sales in food retail, food service, and food processing following its economic reopening.
“As the Administration works to provide new and better market opportunities for US agricultural exporters, the Philippines sets itself apart from the rest with a US partnership that spans decades and an even brighter future for trade,” said USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley.
“The Philippines and the United States just marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries and the United States is proud to be one of the Philippines’ largest economic partners. When it comes to US foods and beverages in particular, US brands are highly regarded as safe, reliable, and of good quality, and are the leaders in the marketplace, accounting for 21% market share.”
The USDA said for US companies interested in exploring the Philippine market, strong export opportunities include beef; pork; poultry; cheese and cheese products; food preparations, including infant food; fresh vegetables; healthy foods; gourmet; convenience food products; processed fruit and vegetables; wines, beer, and distilled spirits; pet food; seafood products; and tree nuts.
“USDA is also pleased to be partnering with the Food Export Association of the Midwest USA and Food Export USA–Northeast for this mission,” added Whitley. “Strong collaboration between FAS and the US agricultural industry will ensure we are providing the best possible service to our customers both internationally and right here at home.”
While in Manila, participants will conduct business-to-business meetings with potential importers, receive in-depth market briefings from FAS and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits and other networking opportunities.
The deadline to apply for the Philippines trade mission is May 18; spots are limited, the USDA said.
Previously, the USDA had a trade mission to the Philippines scheduled for April 2020, but this was cancelled due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Applicants originally selected for the 2020 trade mission will be given priority to participate in the coming trade mission.
