The Asia-Pacific region has a $20-billion vegetables market, of which the Philippines only accounts for $240 million. The data from Euromonitor were highlighted at a recent forum organized by East West Seed Company, which is looking to make the Philippines a top exporter of vegetable seeds.
According to Mary Ann Sayoc, general manager of East West Seed, the country’s dismal failure to attend to this market “should be a cause of concern for not only farmers but government because we are missing out on opportunities.”
East-West Seed Company said that factors such as limited production and a focus on other crops account for the low numbers. The company is looking to raise market penetration for its high-yielding seeds from 65 percent to 70 percent, and also encourage more people to get into vegetable farming.
Its new “go grow” line featuring easy-to-grow vegetables and cultivation information is targeted at amateur farmers, though experienced growers are also expected to benefit from higher yields and increased competitiveness.
source: interaksyon.com
