The Philippines is the eighth-largest export market for U.S. agricultural and food exports, averaging $3.1 billion annually during the last five years. It offers U.S. agribusinesses tremendous export potential thanks to its young and fast-growing population, strong consumer preference for U.S. foods and beverages, and robust service-based economy, which has reported increased sales in food retail, food service, and food processing following the country’s economic reopening.

“As the Administration works to provide new and better market opportunities for U.S. agricultural exporters, the Philippines sets itself apart from the rest with a U.S. partnership that spans decades and an even brighter future for trade,” said USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) Administrator Daniel Whitley. “The Philippines and the United States just marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries and the United States is proud to be one of the Philippines’ largest economic partners. When it comes to U.S. foods and beverages in particular, U.S. brands are highly regarded as safe, reliable, and of good quality, and are the leaders in the marketplace, accounting for 21 percent market share.”

For U.S. companies interested in exploring the Philippine market, strong export opportunities include beef; pork; poultry; cheese and cheese products; food preparations, including infant food; fresh vegetables; healthy foods; gourmet; convenience food products; processed fruit and vegetables; wines, beer, and distilled spirits; pet food; seafood products; and tree nuts.

“USDA is also pleased to be partnering with the Food Export Association of the Midwest USA and Food Export USA–Northeast for this mission,” added Whitley. “Strong collaboration between FAS and the U.S. agricultural industry will ensure we are providing the best possible service to our customers both internationally and right here at home.” 

While in Manila, participants will conduct business-to-business meetings with potential importers, receive in-depth market briefings from FAS and industry trade experts, and participate in site visits and other networking opportunities.

The deadline to apply for the Philippines trade mission is May 18, and spots are limited. USDA previously had a trade mission to the Philippines scheduled for April 2020, which was cancelled due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Applicants originally selected for the 2020 trade mission will be given priority to participate in this one.  

For more information, visit https://www.fas.usda.gov/topics/trade-missions or email trademissions@usda.gov.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.