Philippines Ships Durian, Mangosteen to Vancouver, Opening New Market

The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Wednesday that the Philippines has shipped fresh durian and mangosteen to Vancouver, Canada, marking the opening of another international market for its tropical fruit exports. A shipment of 300 kilograms of durian and 120 kilograms of mangosteen was sent to Vancouver. Another consignment of 300 kilograms of durian and 200 kilograms of mangosteen is scheduled for dispatch to Toronto on September 24. These Canada-bound shipments build on the recent opening of markets in France, where three air cargo shipments of fresh durian have landed and continue weekly. Philip C. Young, agriculture undersecretary-designate for Identified High-Value Export Crops and Agri-Fishery Export Development, stated that the shipments highlight the DA’s efforts to position Philippine produce at the forefront of international trade. "We continue to forge durable global partnerships, secure vital market share, and showcase the quality of our high-value crops," Mr. Young said in a statement. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. mentioned that the shipments fulfill President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s directive to the DA to find new markets for Philippine farm products. Mr. Laurel emphasized that expanding agricultural exports is essential to redirecting more value towards farmers and rural communities. The Philippines has recorded agricultural trade deficits exceeding $11 billion annually since 2022. The Vancouver shipment, transported via Philippine Airlines cargo, was imported by distributor Fresh Makers Ltd., which also imported 250 cartons of fresh Carabao mangoes on September 18.