Phl seeks to boost agri exports to Japan

The Philippines wants to in­ crease its agricultural exports to Japan as the government continues to push for zero tariffs for bananas, as well as the revival of shipment of lo­ cal mangoes to the East Asian country.

- CATHERINE TALAVERA

The Department of Agricul­ ture (DA) is already coordina­ting with the Department of Trade and Industry to secure a preferential tariff rate for Philippine bananas, which is under threat from rising ship­ ments from Cambodia, Laos, Mexico and Vietnam. Japan gives a zero or preferential tariff for bananas coming from these countries.

“Philippine bananas are staples for Japanese consum­ers, accounting for 22 percent of their food basket. The Phil­ ippines proximity to Japan allows the country to deliver low-cost bananas and other tropical fruits compliant with Japanese food standards,” the DA said.

Based on Japan’s tariff schedule as of Jan. 1, 2024, ba­ nanas imported from the Phil­ippines from Oct. 1 to March 31 are imposed a tariff of 18 percent. This is higher than the eight percent tariff slapped on Philippine bananas during the summer season or from April 1 to Sept. 30.

Agriculture Secretary Fran­ cisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the re­ view of the Japan­Philippines Economic Partnership Agree­ ment (JPEPA) would be a good initial opportunity “to discuss the Philippines’ appeal for lower tariff on bananas.”