Taguig City – Ireland has initiated its first high-level trade mission to the Philippines, recognizing the country as a significant market in Southeast Asia. The two-day Irish trade mission, led by the Bord Bia (Irish Food Board), is focused on enhancing Ireland’s food exports to the Philippines, particularly dairy and meat products.
According to Philippines News Agency, the mission also seeks to explore opportunities for partnership with local Filipino companies.
Irish Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon T.D., emphasized the importance of the Philippines as a trading partner in agri-food during a press briefing in Taguig City. In 2022, Ireland’s primary exports to the Philippines included dairy, beef, drinks, sheep meat, and seafood. Jim O’Toole, CEO of Bord Bia, mentioned that 12 Irish companies participated in the trade mission, represented by importers and traders based in the Philippines. The delegation also met with Philippine Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual and members of the Philippine Association Meat Processors Inc. and the Meat Importers and Traders Association. During the trade mission, Tirlan and Lakeland Diaries, two leading Irish dairy processors, signed agreements with dairy distributors in Manila for the supply of Irish cream and butter to the Philippines.