MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is seeking to expand agricultural trade ties with Egypt, with the Department of Agriculture (DA) exploring broader market access for key exports such as mangoes and bananas.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. met with Egyptian Ambassador Nader Nabil Zaki on June 5 to strengthen bilateral agricultural cooperation and pursue greater entry of high-value Philippine produce into the North African market.

“They already granted us access for durian. We are hopeful they will do the same for our mangoes and bananas,” Tiu Laurel said, referring to Egypt’s recent approval of Philippine durian exports. He cited President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand overseas markets for Philippine farm goods.

The move is part of a broader DA initiative to diversify export destinations and tap into emerging, strategically located markets such as Egypt, Africa’s second-largest economy.

In return, the Philippines is finalizing pest risk assessments and food safety protocols for potential imports of Egyptian grapes and ware potatoes. Officials also discussed the possibility of sourcing garlic and onions from Egypt, with plans for technical cooperation in the pipeline.

While current agri-trade between the two countries is modest—amounting to about USD 7.5 million annually—both sides see strong potential for growth, particularly in products that meet seasonal and consumer demands. The Philippines mainly exports desiccated coconut and carrageenan to Egypt and imports broths, soups, and dried kidney beans.

The dialogue follows the Philippines’ recent success in entering new export markets. In late May, it shipped its first commercial batch of fresh mangoes to Italy, and talks are ongoing for durian exports to New Zealand.

Private sector stakeholders have expressed optimism over deepening trade with Egypt, given its role as a gateway to larger markets in Africa and the Middle East.

With diplomatic ties dating back to 1946 and over 2,200 Filipinos currently working in Egypt, both countries are expected to broaden cooperation in agriculture and other economic areas.