Korean Grapes Open Export Route to the Philippines... Quarantine Negotiations Finalized

Exports to Begin Next Year

The export route for Korean grapes to the Philippines has opened, following the finalization of export quarantine negotiations.

The Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency announced on November 30 that the export quarantine negotiations with the Philippines for Korean grapes, which had been ongoing since 2007, were finally concluded on November 25.

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During this period, the agency continuously consulted with the Philippine authorities to establish management measures for pests and diseases of concern regarding Korean grape exports. In particular, in August last year, Philippine quarantine officials were invited to Korea to conduct on-site inspections of domestic grape orchards and packing facilities. These efforts ultimately led to the successful conclusion of the negotiations.

To export grapes to the Philippines, exporters must meet quarantine requirements such as registration of orchards and export packing facilities, pest monitoring, and additional statements on the phytosanitary certificate. The agency plans to promptly implement follow-up procedures to support exports, including enacting a public notice reflecting the agreed quarantine requirements with the Philippines and providing tailored training for farmers.

An official from the agency stated, "Korean grapes are a product whose exports to markets such as Taiwan and the United States have been steadily increasing. Given the high popularity of K-Food in the Philippines, strong demand is also expected there. The conclusion of these negotiations is significant in that it expands the foundation of the Southeast Asian market."

With this agreement, the number of Korean agricultural products eligible for export to the Philippines has expanded to a total of eight items, including apples, pears, persimmons, onions, tangerines, paprika, and strawberries, in addition to grapes.

Choi Jeong-rok, head of the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency, said, "The conclusion of these quarantine negotiations is an important milestone for pioneering the Philippine market for Korean grapes, whose exports have been steadily increasing, and for further strengthening the presence of K-agricultural products in the Southeast Asian market in the future. We will continue to identify new markets to expand exports of our agricultural products."