China is once again allowing the import of Philippine bananas. According to Stephen Antig of the Philippine Banana Growers and Exporters Association (PBGEA), the bananas were never really banned from entering the Chinese market, but there were some issues regarding phytosanitary regulations. “The residue present in the bananas exceeded the maximum levels, which was the reason the shipments of bananas were held back at customs. However, we’ve invited a team of Chinese inspectors to our plantations and packaging plants to check on our production process. While they did mention some issues we could improve upon, they were generally satisfied with what they’ve seen.”
Before the visit of the Chinese health inspectors, the PBGEA had already submitted all measures for improvement for the Philippine banana sector to the Chinese authorities. According to Antig, all small and medium banana growers in the Philippines are relieved by this outcome. 90% of the Philippine banana export is destined for China. While the banana sector has become more diversified and isn’t as dependent on China as it used to be, it’s still the most important market for the Philippines.
“Every now and again there will be some phytosanitary issues, but as long China doesn’t outright ban our produce, we’ll get by,” says Antig.
The main issue that is troubling the Philippine banana sector right now is related to the political unrest in Mindanao. The communist resistance group NPA is threatening peace and order in the region by demanding revolutionary taxes from local growers. If the growers refuse to pay, the NPA cuts down their produce or burns down their houses. The PBGEA has made an appeal to President Duterte with regards to the NPA at a banana congress that was held recently. Other issues that were addressed were the need of a banana council. While President Duterte acknowledged the benefits of such an organisation, he remarked that the establishment of a banana council needs more than just a presidential decree. Rather, it would need the proposal and adoption of a new bill, meaning it will take some time for this council to be set up.
At this congress, a list of issues was presented to the secretary of agriculture. Apart from the need of protection from the NPA and the establishment of a banana council, other topics were - more measures against pests and diseases, the establishment of a research institute and the need for trade negotiations with Japan and South-Korea.
For more information:
Stephen Antig
PBGEA (Philippines)
Tel: +63 82- 227-7771
Email: admin@pbgea.com
www.pbgea.com
Author: Peter Duivenvoorde / Yzza Ibrahim