The Philippines has successfully expanded its access to Japan’s lucrative food market with the approval to export Hass avocados, a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural export growth and highlights the quality of local produce.

“This is a testament to the Philippines’ dedication to expanding its agricultural exports and the high quality of our farm produce,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. “We are optimistic that this access granted by Japan will lead to opportunities in other international markets for locally-grown Hass avocados.”

Sec. Tiu Laurel also commended the collaborative efforts of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), the Office of the Agriculture Attaché in Tokyo, and Dole Stanfilco in achieving this international trade milestone.

The Hass variety, favored for its smaller size and pebbly skin that turns purplish-black when ripe, is particularly well-suited to Japanese preferences.

Japan is a major importer of Hass avocados, with imports valued at USD 160 million (61,000 metric tons) in 2023.  Key suppliers include Mexico, Peru, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. ### (Photos by Jay Morales, DA-OSEC)