The Philippines has resumed fresh pineapple exports to the
United Arab Emirates, marking a renewed effort to strengthen its presence in
the Middle East and lessen dependence on traditional overseas buyers.
According to the Department of Agriculture, an initial
shipment of 18 metric tons of premium MD2 pineapples reached the UAE on June 28
after entering through the Port of Khor Fakkan. The produce, packed in 1,500
boxes and harvested from farms in Tampakan, South Cotabato, was later
introduced to buyers at Dubai's Al Aweer Fruit and Vegetable Market.
The shipment represents the reopening of a key regional
market after logistics challenges had previously disrupted trade. Rather than
treating the delivery as a one-time transaction, the government expects exports
to continue on a regular two-week schedule, reflecting consistent demand for
high-quality Philippine tropical fruits in the Gulf.
The latest development is part of a broader agricultural
export strategy that seeks to diversify the country's customer base. Expanding
into markets such as the UAE reduces exposure to fluctuations in
long-established trading partners while creating new opportunities for Filipino
farmers and exporters. Much like widening investment across multiple industries
reduces financial risk, serving more international markets strengthens the
resilience of the agricultural sector.
The export operation was coordinated by Davao-based Mensch
Fil-Am Trading in partnership with Avante Agri-Products Philippines Inc., while
Octagon General Trading LLC managed product distribution within the UAE.
The Department of Agriculture noted that the Middle East
offers significant long-term growth potential. Population expansion, a thriving
tourism industry, and limited domestic agricultural production continue to
drive demand for imported fresh produce, making the region an increasingly
attractive destination for Philippine farm exports.
To support this expansion, the department's agricultural
attaché in Dubai will continue working with Philippine foreign service posts
and private industry partners to secure additional market access, connect
exporters with overseas buyers, and ensure Philippine products meet
international import standards.
The country's strong performance in the global pineapple trade further reinforces these efforts. Data from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization showed that the Philippines remained the world's second-largest pineapple exporter in 2025, shipping 775,028 metric tons, representing a 14 percent increase compared with 2024.
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