The bilateral agreement sealed during the state visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Beijing early January this year is now being fully implemented with the first batch of Philippine durian shipped to the People’s Republic of China on April 6 thru the Davao International Airport.

The 28-ton durian cargo, which approximately weighs 28,000 kilograms, was sourced from producers and processors in Mindanao, particularly in Region XI, that passed the stringent requirements of the General Administration Customs of China (GACC).

Prior to the first batch of export, the GACC released the list of qualified facilities and farms that received the “green light” from the Chinese government. This consists of five packaging facilities and 58 durian farms.

Following the signing of the “Protocol of the Phytosanitary Requirements for Export of Fresh Durian from the Philippines to China” on January 4, the Philippine government, through the Department of Agriculture (DA), has commenced the preparatory measures including the extension of support to durian growers and processors that enabled them to meet the protocol requirements.

The DA’s Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) also assisted in the accreditation and PhilGAP certification of the industry players.

The deal is expected to gain $260 million or P14.3 billion in revenue for the local durian industry.

Another shipment of 28 tons was sent off via airfreight, while 10 container vans loaded with a total 7.2 tons was transported via sea vessel, on Saturday, April 8.

Under his administration, President Marcos is committed to implement strategies to ensure high-quality fruits for export.

The DA continues to provide assistance to durian growers including logistical and financial support under the Enhanced KADIWA Grant. ### (Adora D. Rodriguez, DA-AFID)