The Philippines offers New Zealand exporters opportunities

There were opportunities for New Zealand companies in the Philippines begging to be tackled, Trade Negotiations Minister Jim Sutton said today, after discussions with key Philippines agricultural trade officials and business people.

In a meeting hosted by Philippines Agriculture Secretary Luis Lorenzo, opportunities were identified for increased exports, imports, research and development co-operation, and sales of processing technology.

A major fruit and seafood producer, the Philippines is keen to increase food production and processing to meet the needs of its 84 million people and its export trade, but is hampered by needs for innovative plant and product development, agricultural and food processing technology, according to Philippines officials and business people.

Trade New Zealand's Regional Director for South East Asia Robin Davidson said there were untapped opportunities for New Zealand Crown Research Institutes, food processing equipment designers and exporters, and agritech exporters in the Philippines.

"Philippines producers are also keen to link up with companies which can incorporate Philippines produce into their international supply chains and which have innovative product ideas."

New Zealand Trade Commissioner in Manila Ramoncito Bernales sees some real advantages for New Zealand exporters to the Philippines.

"New Zealand already has a hard-won reputation in the Philippines for supplying high quality products and services supported by friendly, efficient service," he said.

"It's an advantage which we can build on as there is a terrific willingness to work with New Zealanders."

The Philippines is already New Zealand's 13th largest market for merchandise exports, as well as being a market for invisible exports such as engineering and consultancy services.

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