Attempt to solve banana issues
Philippines sends mission to China
Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo on Monday said that he was confident the slow down in banana exports was a temporary issue which could be resolved quickly.
He said that the government was currently treating the issue as a technical one, relating to the increased quality regulations and not, as some are suggesting, as a diplomatic one relating to territorial disputes. He did say, however, that this was not beyond possibility.
"I am not saying (the Scarborough Shoal issue) has nothing to do with it, but I hope not," he said.
Agriculture Assistant Secretary Salvador Salacup, when asked what the government's approach should be if it transpired the dispute was the root of the issue, said the country should seek alternative markets for their bananas.
Domingo said there were potential new markets in Northern Asia, as well as the chance to increase export trade with Korea and Japan.
Source: abs-cbnnews.com
