Türkiye Ambassador to the Philippines Niyazi Evren Akyol expresses optimism for the continued expansion of trade between the Philippines and Türkiye after the trade mission attended by businessmen from both countries in Makati City on Tuesday (Sept. 23, 2025). He said agricultural products and defense equipment will be among the priorities for both countries. (PNA photo by Joann Villanueva)
Stronger economic ties between Türkiye and the Philippines are on the horizon following a high-level trade mission held Tuesday in Makati City, bringing together members of the Turkey Exporters Assembly (TİM) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).
Türkiye’s Ambassador to the Philippines Niyazi Evren Akyol said talks are advancing to boost the export of Turkish poultry to the Philippines, while Manila is expected to ship more fresh and dried fruits to Türkiye.
“We are in contact with the Department of Agriculture here, going through the necessary procedures. Poultry and fruits are the immediate items we are focusing on, but there is much room to expand from there,” Akyol told reporters. He is set to meet Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday.
Beyond agriculture, Akyol revealed that Türkiye is also considering expanding its defense equipment exports to the Philippines under the Department of National Defense’s modernization program, now branded as Re-Horizon 3. While he declined to provide details, he noted there is “great interest in a variety of products” and ongoing talks with the defense establishment.
Ali Can Yamanyilmaz, who led the TİM delegation, highlighted the Philippines as one of the region’s most dynamic markets. Türkiye’s exports to the Philippines hit USD140 million in 2024, while imports from the Philippines reached USD254 million.
In the first seven months of 2025 alone, Türkiye saw sharp growth in its exports to Manila, led by defense and aerospace products (up 164 percent year-on-year), followed by jewelry (55 percent), electronics (26 percent), and grains (11 percent).
“We look forward to building our ties and enabling more of our 150,000 exporters to enter this promising market,” Yamanyilmaz said, thanking Filipino partners for their hospitality.