The Philippines has sent nearly one metric ton of fresh durian and mangosteen to Canada, opening a promising new market for the country’s tropical fruits, the Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed Wednesday.
The first trial shipment — 300 kg durian and 120 kg mangosteen — flew September 23 via Philippine Airlines to Vancouver buyer Fresh Makers Ltd. A second batch departs September 24 for Toronto: 300 kg durian and 200 kg mangosteen.
These exports support the Marcos administration’s drive to lift farm earnings, expand overseas markets, and trim the country’s agricultural trade deficit — which has exceeded $11 billion annually since 2022.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the shipments aim to boost farmer incomes and drive rural development. They follow successful weekly durian shipments to France and come just days after the Philippines’ first commercial export of fresh Carabao mangoes to Canada — 1 metric ton arriving September 18, also handled by Fresh Makers.
The DA is pushing broader exports of high-value crops including durian, cacao, coffee, and okra, while building up more products to diversify the nation’s farm export lineup. Over 40 mango grower groups have been united under one federation to strengthen supply quality, meet global standards, and sustain market access.
