DA pushes for lowering tariff for PH bananas to Japan

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has signified intent with the Japanese government to lower the tariff levied on Philippines bananas entering Japan, which are currently being charged at 8%.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the DA said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. went to Tokyo, Japan last January 26 to 29, 2026 for a ministerial visit with Agriculture Minister and the Senior Vice President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) “to advance agriculture, fisheries, and food security cooperation.”

During his ministerial visit, the Agriculture Department said Tiu Laurel raised the Philippines’ intent to lower Japan’s tariff on fresh bananas as Manila prepares for its accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). 

Tiu Laurel likewise sought for new market access for pomelos as well as expedited entry for Japanese grapes.

The Agriculture chief also raised enhanced protocols for mango, papaya, and poultry from avian flu-free regions.

Moreover, the Philippines proposed expanding the Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) with Japan to include fisheries, according to the DA.

The Agriculture Department said Japan welcomed the plan and will host the second Philippines-Japan Joint Committee on Agriculture meeting in June 2026. 

“Tiu Laurel expressed hope the amended MOC will be signed this year, marking 70 years of Philippines-Japan diplomatic normalization,” it said.

The DA also secured aid from Japan for a Rice Processing System in NFA Cauayan City, Isabela. The facility —equipped with four 30-metric-ton grain dryers, a 10-ton-per-hour rice mill, and four 1,000-ton silos— will reduce postharvest losses, improve rice quality, and maintain year-round buffer stocks. 

The DA said the grant agreement is scheduled for signing in February 2026 for immediate implementation.

“Secretary Tiu Laurel also requested JICA support for the Philippines’ priority projects, including integrated Food Logistics Hubs, a nationwide study on basic commodity distribution, modernization of small-scale fisheries, Magat Dam rehabilitation, and expansion of the Market-Driven Vegetable Value Chain project,” it said. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News