Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel on Thursday announced meeting Norwegian Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster and discussions aimed at enhancing agricultural trade and cooperation between the Philippines and Norway.
The discussions, held last month, centered on Norway’s plan to boost trade with the Philippines. The Philippines primarily exports seaweed to Norway while Norway sends salmon and cheese to Manila. Notably, the Norwegian fertilizer company Yara has established operations in Davao, signaling a growing economic partnership.
Laurel highlighted the crucial role Yara could play in supporting the Philippine initiatives to significantly increase food production and cut fertilizer costs which are essential components for improving agricultural yields. The DA said Ambassador Lyster is keen on facilitating a meeting between the Bureau of Plant Industry, which is already collaborating with local farmers to enhance durian production and promote sustainable farming practices, and Yara.
Additionally, the DA announced that four personnel from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will be visiting Norway to gain insights into aquaculture, fish processing, and disease control measures, thereby enriching their understanding of Norway’s advanced marine research programs.
Looking ahead, Laurel expressed optimism that Norway will expand its support for increasing seaweed production in the Philippines by next year.
Beyond seaweed, the Philippines also exports canned sardines, live tropical fish, and coconut products to Norway, underscoring the diverse and growing trade relationship between the two nations.
