Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced the Philippines is preparing a position paper seeking tariff relief for its banana exports to Japan under the ongoing review of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).
Tiu Laurel said the issue was raised during his recent meeting with Japanese Minister Junichiro Koizumi, where both sides agreed to “work together to find an amicable solution” to address the high tariffs imposed on Philippine bananas.
“The Philippines will be preparing a position paper so that hopefully Japan can reconsider our request,” he said, adding that the discussion was “very positive” and that both countries agreed to continue consultations on other agricultural products.
Under JPEPA, Philippine bananas are subject to a seasonal tariff of 8 percent from April 1 to Sept. 30, and increase to 18 percent for imports between Oct. 1 and March 31. This puts them at a disadvantage compared with competitors from Vietnam and Thailand, which enjoy lower or zero-tariff access to the Japanese market.
The Philippines also requested Japan’s market access for locally grown pomelo, while Japan expressed interest in exporting grapes to the Philippines.
“Both parties agreed to work on this as soon as possible so that we can release the trade,” Tiu Laurel said.
He noted that the proposed schedule for the gradual lowering of banana tariffs is still under review but will likely follow the same arrangement granted to Vietnam and Thailand.
The secretary said broader trade matters were also discussed, including ongoing talks with the United States on possible tariff exemptions for products not produced or processed there.
“There is openness, there’s a possibility of exemptions on certain products,” he said, adding that the Philippines will continue to pursue a final agreement with the U.S.
Tiu Laurel said both sides have expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral agricultural trade and deepening cooperation under JPEPA.
