The Philippine instant noodle market expects to maintain its seventh-place ranking among the more than 56 member countries of the World Instant Noodle Association.
Monde Nissin Corp. chief executive Henry Soesanto said industry demand in 2024 is projected to exceed the 2023 consumption figure of 4.39 billion packs, with similar expectations for 2025.
“We’re still finalizing the numbers for 2024. But we’re happy that we’re still in the top 10 markets this year. And with another governor country joining, bringing the number to 14, we’re quite optimistic we will remain in the median,” Soesanto said during the second day of the 11th World Instant Noodles Summit in Manila.
He noted that while Vietnam’s per capita consumption is 70 packs, the Philippines lags behind at 40 packs per person.
Soesanto addressed misconceptions about noodles, saying Filipinos eat only 40 packs per 1,000 meals annually, suggesting that health risks like high blood pressure and diabetes are often exaggerated.
He elaborated on sodium intake, emphasizing that while the Philippines’ traditional dishes like adobo often contain unmeasured amounts of salt, the instant noodle industry ensures strict sodium content regulations.
He also pointed out that the country’s climate and active lifestyle contribute to natural sodium loss through sweating, making moderate salt intake less concerning.
Meanwhile, WINA president Koki Ando said global demand for instant noodles continues to grow post-pandemic.
“We are in the process of compiling the statistics for 2024, but we expect the numbers to slightly exceed 2023. Our forecast for 2025 is to maintain, if not surpass 120 billion servings globally,” he said.
Industry figures estimated global demand for instant noodles reached 120 billion servings in 2023, valued at $142 billion.
“During this period, the U.S. dollar was quite strong, affecting the converted values of local currencies,” he said.
On the second and final day of the summit, WINA announced the Manila Declaration, which outlines voluntary challenge targets each member country has adopted.
The targets aim to promote four key areas: nutrition and health, environmental sustainability, food safety and resolution of social issues.