Polish Apples Set to Enter Philippine Market Soon, Agri Minister Announces

Apples from Poland are expected to enter the Philippine market soon, following the completion of bilateral arrangements, Polish Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Stefan Krajewski announced on Thursday. "We are happy to announce that we will be selling Polish apples pretty soon," Krajewski said in an exclusive interview with GMA News. He also mentioned that discussions had taken place regarding the possible entry of other Polish agricultural products into the Philippines, including wheat, onions, and blueberries. Both countries aim to implement these new arrangements within 2026 or possibly in 2027. This announcement marks progress from earlier negotiations. On July 14 last year, Poland's Ministry of Agriculture stated that preparations and bilateral arrangements for the export of Polish apples to the Philippines were still being carried out. Poland, a member of the European Union, is already a significant supplier of poultry products to the Philippines, particularly mechanically deboned meat (MDM). The Philippine Department of Agriculture accredited Poland to export poultry products in 2023, and Poland has since become the Philippines' third-largest supplier of chicken meat. Poland's agricultural and food exports to the Philippines reached approximately $106 million in 2025, an increase of 30.6 percent from $81.1 million in 2024. Its leading exports include dairy products, poultry meat, and edible poultry offal. Opportunities for Filipino Workers During his visit to Manila, Krajewski also met with Cabinet Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. and other Philippine officials. Their discussions included potential employment opportunities for Filipinos in Poland’s agriculture, rural development, food processing, and food production sectors. The minister stated that Filipino workers already employed in Poland are highly regarded by Polish companies, saying, "They are very valued by our employers because they are well disciplined, they are quick learners, and they also have a good command of the English language." However, he did not announce a specific number of Filipino workers to be hired or provide a timetable for their deployment. Poland's Interest in Philippine Products Poland is also interested in importing more Philippine agricultural products, particularly mangoes and avocados. Minister Krajewski indicated that greater market access could be supported by a future free trade agreement between the Philippines and the European Union. Negotiations for the EU-Philippines FTA are ongoing; talks resumed in March 2024, with the sixth negotiating round held in May 2026, though no final agreement has yet been announced. Beyond agriculture and trade, the Philippines and Poland have also been exploring closer cooperation in defense, maritime security, and the defense industry. Krajewski suggested that further discussions could take place during an expected visit to Manila by Polish President Karol Nawrocki in October.