DFNet

October 14, 2024 | Port Calls |

The Philippines and New Zealand are negotiating to permit the export of Philippine durian to New Zealand. During a bilateral meeting in Laos, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed discussions with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon about this trade opportunity. Luxon highlighted ongoing economic talks that include the export of pineapples to New Zealand and onions to the Philippines, noting progress in these areas.

Additionally, New Zealand has requested market access for its onions into the Philippines, with consultations between the Philippine Department of Agriculture and New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries nearing completion. This follows the signing of the Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) by former Philippine trade secretary Alfredo Pascual in February.

The AANZFTA allows 90% of New Zealand’s trade with the Philippines to be duty-free. In 2023, New Zealand exported approximately $955.22 million worth of goods and services to the Philippines, while imports from the Philippines totaled $385.78 million. The two countries have maintained diplomatic relations since July 6, 1966.

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