The first batch of Philippine Durian has been shipped through the Davao International Airport to the People’s Republic of China last April 6 as part of the full implementation of the bilateral agreement of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. during his state visit in Beijing.
The shipped batch, which weighed 28,000 kilograms, was acquired from producers and processors in Mindanao, particularly Region XI and passed the standards of the General Administration Customs in China (GACC).
Previously, the GACC released a list of facilities and farms, which has 5 packaging facilities and 58 durian farms, which had the ‘green light’ from the Chinese government,
In relation to the “Protocol of the Phytosanitary Requirements for Export of Fresh Durian from the Philippines to China” signed last January 4, the preparatory measures includes aiding durian farmers and processors to meet protocol requirements has began through Philippine Government together with the Department of Agriculture (DOA).
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) also helped in industry players’ accreditation and PhilGAP certification.
Around $260-M or ₱14.3-B revenue is expected to acquire from the agreement.
Another batch weighing 28 tons was delivered through airfreight, while 10 container vans with a total of 7.2 tons was shipped through a sea vessel, last Saturday.
The President is dedicated in exporting high-quality fruits by coming up with plans and strategies.
Under the Enhanced Kadiwa Grant, the DA constantly supports the durian producers through logistical and financial aid.