The Philippines is set to make a significant mark in international trade as it aims to export $1.6 million worth of Hass avocados to Japan in 2025. This breakthrough comes after 13 years of negotiations, culminating in the country securing access to Japan’s highly competitive avocado market. The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) revealed plans to ship 484,000 kilograms of Hass avocados, equivalent to 88,000 boxes, next year.
The initial shipment to Japan has already taken place, involving 2,240 boxes of avocados valued at $40,320. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted the importance of this milestone, emphasizing the Philippines’ dedication to expanding agricultural exports and showcasing the exceptional quality of its produce. This development, he noted, could unlock further opportunities in global markets.
Japan, which is the Philippines’ top market for agricultural exports, accounted for $1.1 billion in trade last year. The inclusion of Hass avocados in this growing trade portfolio reflects the strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The Bureau of Plant Industry underscored that this achievement demonstrates the country’s ability to meet the exacting standards of a major international market.
The Hass avocado variety is well-suited to Japanese consumer preferences, with its compact size and durable, pebbly skin that darkens as it ripens. Japan, one of the largest importers of Hass avocados, sourced $60 million worth in 2023 from established suppliers like Mexico, Peru, and the United States. The Philippines’ entry into this market positions it as a competitive player in the premium fruit segment.
As the first Asian country to export Hass avocados to Japan, the Philippines is leading the way in regional agricultural trade. Philippine agriculture attaché in Japan, Aleli Maghirang, described this accomplishment as a “remarkable opportunity” for local producers to tap into Japan’s growing demand for fresh, high-quality fruits.
This new market access also complements the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to expand avocado exports to eight other countries, including China, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. With this development, the country is poised to strengthen its role as a key player in global trade while driving economic opportunities for local farmers.
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