18 tons of Mindanao pineapples bound for UAE
Fresh Philippine pineapples from Mindanao are headed to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking a significant step in expanding export opportunities for one of the country’s top agricultural products in the Middle East.
The Department of Agriculture (DA), through the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) and Regional Field Office XII, led the send-off ceremony on June 6 at the Unifrutti Port in Davao City for a shipment of fresh MD2 pineapples bound for Khorfakkan Port in the UAE.
The shipment consists of 18 metric tons of pineapples packed in 1,500 boxes and sourced from farms in Tampakan, South Cotabato. Organized by exporter Mensch Fil-Am Corporation, headed by President Racquel S. Simon, the cargo is expected to arrive in the UAE on June 25 or 26.
The shipment marks the entry of fresh Philippine pineapples into the UAE through commercial sea freight, reopening an important export route to the Middle East despite continuing logistical challenges linked to the Red Sea crisis.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. described the shipment as a strategic move to expand overseas markets while creating more opportunities for Filipino farmers and agricultural workers.
“Every box of Philippine produce that reaches a new or existing market represents more income for farmers, more jobs for workers, and more value created at home. That is why we are aggressively pursuing new export opportunities for Philippine agriculture,” Tiu Laurel said.
“Our goal is not merely to export more products but to build a stronger and more competitive farm sector where Filipino farmers directly benefit from global market opportunities,” the DA chief added.
According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, pineapple is already the Philippines’ top agricultural export to the UAE.
The DA said the successful shipment demonstrates the ability of Philippine exporters to meet stringent international phytosanitary standards and UAE import requirements, potentially paving the way for increased exports to the Gulf region.
Officials also view the shipment as an opportunity to strengthen agricultural trade ties with the UAE and expand the country’s presence in other Middle Eastern markets.
The export initiative forms part of the government’s broader effort to open new markets for Philippine farm products, boost export earnings, and improve the country’s agricultural trade balance.
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