Philippines Anticipates Expanded US Market for Pineapple Exports

The Philippines is on the verge of securing full access for its pineapple exports to the United States, according to Glenn Panganiban, Director of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). Panganiban indicated that the federal registry process is nearing completion, stating, "If there are no further comments from stakeholders, then it will be opened." This development follows a proposal from the United States Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to lift entry-port restrictions that have historically limited Philippine pineapples to certain regions.

Currently, Philippine pineapples can only be imported through ports in the North Atlantic region, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands. These restrictions were imposed due to biosecurity concerns, particularly regarding the oriental fruit fly, a pest capable of damaging over 400 types of crops. The proposed changes would allow for broader access, significantly benefiting Philippine exporters.

“If there are no further comments from stakeholders, then it will be opened.”Glenn Panganiban, Director of the Bureau of Plant Industry

APHIS is currently accepting stakeholder comments on the proposal until August 10, and the final decision will depend on the feedback received. The Philippines was the world’s second-largest pineapple exporter last year, exporting over 775,000 metric tons, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization.

“The Philippines was the world’s second-largest pineapple exporter last year, exporting over 775,000 metric tons.”Food and Agriculture Organization

In addition to the anticipated US market expansion, the Philippines has recently made strides in other international markets. Last month, the country exported 1,500 boxes, or 18 metric tons, of premium MD2 pineapples to the United Arab Emirates. This shipment, sourced from farms in Tampakan, South Cotabato, arrived at the Port of Khor Fakkan on June 28. The Davao-based exporter Mensch Fil-Am Trading coordinated the shipment with Avante Agri-Products Philippines Inc., while Octagon General Trading LLC managed distribution within the UAE.

Officials expect regular shipments to the UAE every two weeks, driven by a steady demand for premium fruit in one of the region's fastest-growing food import markets. Panganiban expressed optimism about the potential for the Philippines to open additional export markets for its agricultural commodities in the latter half of the year.