DA Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. – Photo courtesy of Department of Agricuture/Facebook.
Looking toward its participation in Green Expo 2027 in Japan, the Philippine government plans to join the even as a means of positioning local agriculture not only as a trade pillar but as a strategic bridge for innovation, sustainability and long-term economic security.
Amid growing concerns over a possible economic downturn brought about by the ongoing energy crisis, Manila has reaffirmed commitment to join the activity scheduled at the Kamisaya Communication Facility in downtown Yokohama from March 19 to September 26, 2027 while expressing full support to its goal of celebrating nature, culture and sustainability.
Manila’s commitment was highlighted during a May 4 meeting between Japanese ambassador Kazuya Endo and agriculture secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who both agreed to establishing expanded cooperation between the Philippines and Japan in agriculture, trade and innovation.
According to Secretary Laurel, the global event will be a boon to the local agriculture sector as they consider the event as a platform to showcase the country’s push for sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture and the promotion of deeper high-value trade ties with Japan.
The agri chief cited that the Expo will allow the Philippines to present its strengths in horticulture, agri-innovation and cultural heritage at a time when food security and supply chains are under strain from shifting geopolitics and climate risks.
“Japan remains a critical partner. Philippine agri-fishery exports to Japan reached about US$1.1 billion in 2023, generating a US$990 million trade surplus for Manila. Japan is also (our) second-largest market for agricultural exports, with demand anchored on bananas, pineapples and fisheries products,” he pointed out.
Bananas alone, he added, accounted for roughly US$760 million in exports in 2023, underscoring the scale of trade relations between Tokyo and Manila.
On the other hand, Japan has increasingly supported Philippine agriculture through technology, inputs and systems that include fertilizers to machinery and thus highlighting a complementary trade structure that promises success in the future.
Ambassador Endo reaffirmed Japan’s support for advancing Philippine agriculture, particularly in promoting sustainability and improving market access.