By Tracy Cabrera
DILIMAN, Quezon City — Looking ahead to its participation in Green Expo 2027 in Japan, the Philippine government plans to join the event as a way to position local agriculture not only as a trade pillar but also as a strategic bridge for innovation, sustainability, and long-term economic security.
Amid growing concerns over a possible economic downturn brought about by the ongoing energy crisis, Manila has reaffirmed its commitment to participate in the activity, scheduled at the Kamisaya Communication Facility in downtown Yokohama from March 19 to September 26, 2027, while expressing full support for its goal of celebrating nature, culture, and sustainability.
Manila’s commitment was highlighted during a May 4 meeting between Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., who both agreed to expand cooperation between the Philippines and Japan in agriculture, trade, and innovation.
According to Secretary Laurel, the global event will be a boon to the local agriculture sector, serving as a platform to showcase the country’s push for sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture and to promote deeper high-value trade ties with Japan.
The agriculture chief said the Expo will allow the Philippines to present its strengths in horticulture, agri-innovation, and cultural heritage at a time when food security and supply chains are under strain from shifting geopolitics and climate risks.
“Japan remains a critical partner. Philippine agri-fishery exports to Japan reached about US$1.1 billion in 2023, generating a US$990 million trade surplus for Manila. Japan is also our second-largest market for agricultural exports, with demand anchored on bananas, pineapples, and fisheries products,” he pointed out.
Bananas alone, he added, accounted for roughly US$760 million in exports in 2023, underscoring the scale of trade relations between Tokyo and Manila.
Meanwhile, Japan has increasingly supported Philippine agriculture through technology, inputs, and systems—from fertilizers to machinery—highlighting a complementary trade structure that promises continued growth.
Ambassador Endo reaffirmed Japan’s support for advancing Philippine agriculture, particularly in promoting sustainability and improving market access.
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