THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the Philippines is hoping to regain its former status as the leading banana exporter to Japan when the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) is reviewed.
“Our bananas reclaimed the number two position last year … We are continuously talking to the Japanese government if we could, of course, start the talks,” Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque told reporters on Wednesday.
“We are hoping that with the Japanese support, (as we are) trying to really push for the JPEPA,” she added, through the help of which “we could really get the top spot again.”
She is scheduled to meet her Japanese counterpart within the first quarter to discuss JPEPA.
“We talked to their foreign affairs official who came here last month… they are aware of (our position). But I still have to talk to my (trade) counterpart,” she said.
“I am setting a meeting very soon, within the first quarter definitely. We hope that we can sit down and get this going,” she added.
For this year, she said the Philippines is also looking to conclude free trade agreements (FTAs) with the European Union, Chile, and Canada.
“Our President will go down in history (as the one with) the most FTAs that were signed during his term,” she said. “And we hope to do more (with countries like) Brazil and many others.”
She said an FTA with Brazil is on the wish list of Philippine exporters.
She said the Philippines should also prepare its logistics to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) tap global markets.
On Wednesday, the DTI onboarded more private sector partners to its logistics network, which includes Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) Corp.
“Through our partnership with the DTI’s Supply Chain and Logistics Center, we aim to strengthen businesses by improving their logistics capabilities — making them more efficient, accessible, and resilient,” TMP President Masando Hashimoto said.
“Our shared goal is simple: to empower businesses to move forward, expand opportunities, and succeed — with trusted mobility and stronger logistics support at every step,” he added.
During the event, Mr. Hashimoto also welcomed the resolution of the funding for the Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy program.
“This support secures our local manufacturing and industrial systems,” he said.
He said that the company’s operations have been boosted by the production of the Toyota Tamaraw light business truck.
“As of end-January, we have proudly produced over 21,000 units, made possible by the dedication of 4,500 Filipino workers and the support of 44 parts suppliers — many of whom are MSMEs themselves,” he added.
Among its new partners were the Association of International Shipping Lines (AISL) and the Philippine Chamber of Customs Brokers, Inc. (PCCBI).
“As Philippine exports continue to climb, the DTI is ensuring local logistics capabilities can keep pace with international demand. The inclusion of AISL and PCCBI is designed to bridge the gap between local production and global markets,” the DTI said.
Established in June, the Supply Chain and Logistics Center is meant to help MSMEs access real-time service referrals and cost-saving regulatory guidance. — Justine Irish D. Tabile
