The Philippines and Egypt are stepping up efforts to expand agricultural trade and investment cooperation, with a proposed meeting between their agriculture ministers in late July expected to advance discussions on fertilizer supply, market access, and new export opportunities.

In a statement Wednesday, Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said both countries will benefit from the planned agricultural trade expansion.

“We see significant potential to expand agricultural cooperation with Egypt, not only in securing reliable fertilizer supplies for our farmers but also in creating new market opportunities for Philippine agricultural exports,” he said.

“Our objective is to build a partnership that strengthens food security, supports farmers and agribusinesses, and promotes sustainable growth for both countries.”

Officials from Cairo have earlier committed to providing a list of fertilizer manufacturers capable of supplying the Philippine market.

Egypt is one of the world’s major fertilizer producers and is currently exploring a long-term supply arrangement with Philippine stakeholders, including Planters Products Inc. (PPI).

For its part, the DA is conducting a feasibility study to assess potential procurement opportunities.

Besides fertilizer importation, the department also reported emerging export opportunities, with Egypt showing interest in importing tuna, papaya, and pineapple from the Philippines.

“This is a win-win situation for Manila and Cairo, and we are optimistic about the outcome of these negotiations,” Tiu Laurel said.

Other agricultural products are also promoted, including bananas, mangoes, coconuts, durian, tobacco, pomelo, and dragon fruit.

Philippine officials also have been pushing for the approval of market entry of fresh bananas and mangoes to the Egyptian market, while negotiations on a pending Specific Commodity Understanding continue to move forward. (PNA)