Philippines and Japan Forge Stronger Agri-Fisheries Partnerships in Key Ministerial Visit
In a significant move to bolster bilateral ties, Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel wrapped up a successful ministerial visit to Japan from January 26 to 29, 2026. The trip aimed to enhance cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, and food security, marking a pivotal step in the long-standing relationship between the two nations.
Key Discussions on Trade and Market Access
During high-level meetings, Secretary Tiu Laurel engaged with Japan's new Agriculture Minister and the Senior Vice President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). He emphasized the Philippines' strategic interests, including:
- Lowering tariffs on fresh bananas to boost Philippine exports.
- Preparing for the Philippines' accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which could open new trade opportunities.
- Requesting new market access for pomelos and expedited entry for Japanese grapes to foster reciprocal trade benefits.
- Enhancing protocols for mango, papaya, and poultry from avian flu-free regions to ensure food safety and expand export channels.
The Philippines also proposed expanding the existing Memorandum of Cooperation to include fisheries, a move warmly welcomed by Japan. Plans are underway for the second PH-Japan Joint Committee on Agriculture meeting in June 2026, with hopes to sign the amended MOC this year, commemorating 70 years of diplomatic normalization.
Grant Aid and Infrastructure Development
A highlight of the visit was securing Japan's grant aid for a Rice Processing System in NFA Cauayan City, Isabela. This state-of-the-art facility will feature:
- Four 30-metric-ton grain dryers to improve drying efficiency.
- A 10-ton-per-hour rice mill for enhanced processing capacity.
- Four 1,000-ton silos to maintain year-round buffer stocks.
Scheduled for signing in February 2026, this project aims to reduce postharvest losses, improve rice quality, and strengthen food security in the region.
Support for Priority Projects and Modernization
Secretary Tiu Laurel requested JICA support for several key Philippine initiatives, including:
- Integrated Food Logistics Hubs to streamline supply chains.
- A nationwide study on basic commodity distribution for better planning.
- Modernization of small-scale fisheries to boost productivity.
- Rehabilitation of Magat Dam to support irrigation and water management.
- Expansion of the Market-Driven Vegetable Value Chain project to promote sustainable agriculture.
Accompanied by Governors Rodolfo Albano III and Mario Eduardo Ortega, the Secretary toured Japan's advanced logistics hubs, such as Chita Futo, Yaizu Fish Port, and Tokyo Wholesale Meat Market. These visits are intended to serve as models for the Philippines' own food security and agri-fisheries modernization efforts.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations for Future Growth
This visit underscores the Department of Agriculture's commitment to deepening relations with Japan, a global leader in agri-fisheries technology and a key market for Philippine exports. The partnerships forged during these meetings are expected to:
- Strengthen trade ties through improved market access and tariff negotiations.
- Enhance food security by reducing losses and increasing buffer stocks.
- Modernize the agriculture and fisheries sectors with advanced technologies and infrastructure.
As both nations look ahead, these collaborative efforts promise to drive economic growth and sustainability in the Philippines' agricultural landscape.
