March 18, 2025 | Philstar Global |
China’s demand boosted Philippine pineapple exports to $787 million in 2024, up 7.5% year-on-year, with fresh/dried varieties leading. Over 675,000 metric tons were exported, 42% to China. The MD2 variety’s shelf life, year-round availability, and price-quality balance made it especially popular. China has remained the Philippines’ top market, importing 90% of its pineapples from the country over the past 20 years. The Philippines is the world’s second-largest pineapple exporter, after Costa Rica. Industry experts see pineapple as the country’s next billion-dollar export product. The OECD and FAO project that 25% of Philippine pineapples will be exported by 2033. Other pineapple products like preserved pineapples and unfermented juice also grew in export value, while lower brix juice exports declined. The local production value was around P30 billion in 2024, contributing about 2% of the gross value added in agriculture. Total pineapple output reached nearly 3 million metric tons, an increase of 800,000 MT compared to 15 years ago. The outlook remains strong, with consistent global demand and a stable position in global markets. The government and stakeholders continue to promote expansion and development to support growth in this key agricultural sector.