Manila: Greater agricultural trade between Trkiye and the Philippines is expected following the trade mission attended by members of the Turkey Exporters Assembly (TIM) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) in Makati City on Tuesday. Trkiye Ambassador to the Philippines Niyazi Evren Akyol, in an interview on the sidelines of the event, said more poultry products are expected to be exported to the Philippines, while he anticipates a higher volume of fresh and dried fruits from the Philippines.
According to Philippines News Agency, Akyol stated that they are in contact with the Department of Agriculture in the Philippines, working through the necessary procedures to facilitate these trades. He mentioned that while the possibilities for trade are extensive, the focus is currently on a few key items with plans to expand in the future. Akyol is scheduled to meet with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Wednesday.
Akyol also noted the potential for an increase in defense equipment exports to the Philippines. He mentioned ongoing communication with the Department of National Defense (DND) but refrained from providing specific details, only stating that the acquisitions align with the Philippines’ Defense Department’s modernization program, known as Re-Horizon 3, which was recently extended to a 10-year program.
Ali Can Yamanyilmaz, head of the delegation of the Trkiye Exporters Assembly (TIM), highlighted the significance of the Philippines as a trade partner, considering its dynamic and high-growth economy in the region. In 2024, Trkiye’s exports to the Philippines reached approximately USD 140 million, while imports from the Philippines amounted to USD 254 million. The defense and aerospace industry led the export growth to the Philippines, rising by 164 percent annually, followed by notable increases in the jewelry, electrical electronics, and grains sectors.
Yamanyilmaz expressed optimism about strengthening ties and engaging more of Trkiye’s 150,000 exporters in the Philippine market, and extended gratitude to their Filipino counterparts for their hospitality.
