THE Philippines will dispatch another batch of fresh mangoes to Australia this month.
This move, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is poised to further fortify the trade relations between the two countries.
Highlighting the robust recovery of bilateral trade between the Philippines and Australia, DTI Secretary Fred Pascual emphasized that trade levels have soared beyond pre-pandemic figures. In 2023 alone, the trade volume between the two nations surged to USD 4.1 billion, representing a significant 20% increase from the previous year’s USD 3.4 billion.
“The continued growth in our bilateral trade underscores the vast potential for our products in the Australian market. The successful export of our mangoes exemplifies the significant strides we’re making in facilitating agricultural trade, which is pivotal for our economic agenda,” Pascual underscored.
He noted the importance of key policy tools such as the Second Protocol of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA), signed by the Philippines on February 14, 2024, in further optimizing the trade and investment relationship between the two nations.
Leading the charge in expanding the reach of premium Philippine agricultural products, particularly mangoes, is the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Sydney (PTIC-Sydney), DTI’s overseas arm. Through strategic initiatives such as trade fairs and consultations, PTIC-Sydney is actively working to enhance the international visibility of Philippine products.
Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega stated that the second shipment of mangoes marks another milestone in the growing trade relations between the Philippines and Australia under the Strategic Partnership established in September 2023.
“Our two countries are committed to strengthening our trade relationship and I am hopeful that this second shipment of Philippine mangoes to Australia will be followed by more. We are excited to share with Australia a true Filipino favorite and Filipino pride, the Philippine mangoes, as we celebrate Filipino Food Month in April,” said De La Vega.
FastboxPH, the logistics firm entrusted with the recent mango shipment, reported a surge in demand within the Australian market, attributing it to the unparalleled taste and quality of Philippine mangoes.
Miguel Ripoll, Managing Director of FastboxPH, echoed the sentiment of excitement for the future, asserting, “The overwhelmingly positive response to our initial shipment last year has paved the way for a triumphant return of Philippine mangoes to Australian tables this April. We are steadfast in our commitment to making Philippine mangoes a household staple in Australia.”/PN
