Exporters of U.S. farm and food products will have an opportunity to explore new business opportunities in the Philippines during a U.S. Department of Agriculture agribusiness trade mission to Manila April 20-23. Individuals interested in participating must apply to USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) by Feb. 6.

“U.S. agricultural exports to the Philippines have more than doubled over the last decade, reaching a record $3 billion in 2018, and positive consumer attitudes and a healthy business climate point to continued growth potential going forward,” said Morgan Haas, FAS counselor for agricultural affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. “Thanks to the United States’ long-standing ties with the Philippines, local consumers have an affinity for American brands, and the country’s rapidly expanding retail, foodservice and food processing sectors offer robust opportunities for U.S. exporters looking to sell agricultural raw materials, high-value ingredients and consumer-oriented food and beverage products.”

Local staff from the FAS office in Manila will arrange targeted business meetings between trade mission delegates and local companies seeking to import American food and farm products. FAS staff and industry experts will also lead in-depth briefings and site visits to provide delegates with additional on-the-ground insights into exporting to the Philippines.

In 2019, USDA hosted six trade missions that enabled more than 240 U.S. companies and organizations to engage in 3,200 meetings with foreign buyers, resulting in $78 million in projected 12-month sales.

In addition to the Philippines, USDA has scheduled seven trade missions for 2020, including to North Africa, Spain/Portugal, U.K., Australia/New Zealand, Peru and the United Arab Emirates.