The Philippines and Japan have started discussions to update their agricultural cooperation agreement ahead of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming state visit to Japan later this month.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) said Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo met with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday to prepare key agreements expected during the visit.
A major focus of the talks is the amendment of the Philippines-Japan Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on agriculture. The update will include the fisheries sector, reflecting its growing importance in food security, jobs, and exports, especially for the Philippines.
Both countries are also looking to expand cooperation in technology. Japan is expected to support the Philippines in areas such as smart farming, digital systems, and precision agriculture to help improve productivity and modernize the sector.
The revised agreement will also create a Joint Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries to ensure long-term coordination between the two countries. Officials aim to finalize and sign the updated deal during Marcos’ visit, signaling stronger ties in agriculture and related industries.
During the meeting, both sides also discussed preparations for the next Joint Committee meeting in Japan in July and the Philippines’ planned participation in Green X Expo 2027 to promote local farm products and attract investors.
They also tackled climate cooperation, including the use of rice farming methods that reduce emissions and could generate carbon credits. Trade issues were raised as well, such as the Philippines’ request to lower Japan’s tariffs on bananas and efforts to expand market access for Philippine pomelos and Japanese grapes.
In addition, the two countries explored possible collaboration in fertilizer production, including bio-fertilizers, to improve efficiency and reduce costs in the agricultural sector.
The DA said these efforts aim to strengthen cooperation, support farmers and fisherfolk, and improve food security while promoting sustainable agriculture.
