The Philippines and New Zealand are looking to advance discussions on market access for agricultural products, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
The subject was among the many topics discussed during the inaugural Philippine-New Zealand Vice-Ministerial Foreign Ministry Consultations (FMC) held at the DFA office in Pasay City.
“On economic engagement, the two delegations expressed readiness to expand two-way trade, advance energy cooperation, and advance discussions on market access for agricultural products,” the DFA said.
As of this posting, no further details on the concerned products were provided. The New Zealand Embassy in Manila also declined to provide the list, citing the ongoing discussions.
Last year, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced that the Philippines and New Zealand governments are currently in talks for the possible entry of durian exports into the New Zealand market.
Wellington had previously requested market access for its onions in the Philippines.
The consultations, held in Manila, were co-chaired by DFA Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Hellen Dela Vega and New Zealand Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Chief Executive of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Bede Corry.
Both sides took stock of positive developments following the renewed vigor of Philippines-New Zealand ties and pledged to continue working towards establishing a Comprehensive Partnership by 2026.
On defense and security, the delegations recognized the significance of the recently concluded Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) in fostering interoperability, maritime security, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).
They also committed to strengthening cooperation against transnational crimes.
They likewise acknowledged New Zealand’s support for various developmental initiatives, including agricultural programs, joint efforts on climate resilience, and peace and development initiatives in Mindanao.
Both also welcomed the growing cooperation on education, including the increased Manaaki New Zealand scholarship opportunities for Filipinos, and discussed potential collaboration in preserving indigenous heritage.
The DFA said the consultations also provided an opportunity to exchange views on regional and global developments, with New Zealand reaffirming its support for the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026.
The FMC is a regular venue between the Philippines and New Zealand to review and advance bilateral relations, which was previously held at the Assistant Secretary level.
The next Vice-Ministerial FMC will be hosted in New Zealand in 2027, with virtual intersessional consultations. (PNA)
