DA in Davao signs deals to bring Saba bananas to Hong Kong, New Zealand

DAVAO CITY — The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-11) announced Friday that Philippine Saba (Cardava) bananas are set to reach new international markets.

This development comes following the signing of two Supply and Purchase Agreements during Asia Fruit Logistica Hong Kong 2026 on Sept. 2.

Last month, an initial 20-ton shipment of Cardava bananas bound for Saudi Arabia was sent by accredited exporter GERB Golden Hands Corp.

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The shipment, comprising 1,540 boxes at 13 kilograms each, is expected to arrive within 35 days.

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DA-11 said the new agreements were signed between Philippine exporter Avante Agri-Products Philippines Inc. and Cozy and Korner Trading Co. of Hong Kong, as well as Fresh Produce Group (FPG) Ltd. of New Zealand.

Cozy and Korner will serve as the exclusive distributor in Hong Kong, while FPG Ltd. will act as the exclusive importer and distributor in New Zealand.

“The new agreement strengthens trade linkages between Philippine exporters and international buyers and creates new market opportunities for Philippine agricultural products, particularly premium export-quality Saba bananas,” DA-11 said in a statement.

The signing was among the highlights of the Philippines’ participation in AFL 2026, where DA led a delegation of fruit industry associations to promote local produce and explore new international markets.

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Meanwhile, DA-11 also reported its participation in the Sabah International Expo 2026 (SIE 2026), a biennial trade fair in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, running from Sept. 2–6.

The expo serves as a platform for exhibitors across the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) and ASEAN.

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DA-11 Regional Technical Director for Operations Marie Ann Constantino said the participation highlights the competitiveness of Philippine products, particularly those from Davao Region, while opening opportunities for Halal-certified enterprises.

“To access the global market, we must know and comply with the market protocols and requirements of the importing country,” Constantino noted.

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“Meeting these standards is essential in ensuring that our products can successfully enter and compete in international markets,” he added. /apl