Manila: The Philippines and Cambodia are seeking to expand agricultural trade and investment as both countries move to strengthen food security and deepen cooperation in the agri-fishery sector. In a news release Friday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said a recent meeting between Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Cambodian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina, together with a business delegation in Manila, reflects the two countries' commitment to broadening economic ties through agriculture and fisheries.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel emphasized that the visit signifies the deepening bilateral relationship and the shared commitment of both countries to advance cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, and broader economic development. He noted that the meeting opens the door to greater collaboration in trade, private-sector partnerships, and investments across the agri-fishery value chain.
The DA highlighted that trade in agricultural products between the Philippines and Cambodia reached USD15.9 million in 2025 and has continued to improve this year. Tiu Laurel indicated that the Cambodian mission is expected to result in new business partnerships between the two Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states. He expressed optimism about significant growth in trade between the Philippines and Cambodia in 2026, anticipating further deals from this mission.
The discussions also align with the Philippines' initiatives to modernize agriculture through climate-resilient farming, improved biosecurity, digital technologies, and stronger value chains. Similarly, Cambodia is developing its agriculture sector, thereby creating opportunities for technology exchange and private investment.
The DA emphasized that the visit extends beyond bilateral relations, reflecting a broader effort among ASEAN member states to strengthen regional food systems and make supply chains more resilient amid global economic uncertainty. Southeast Asian countries are increasingly focusing on boosting trade and cooperation within ASEAN to support long-term food security, rather than relying heavily on markets outside the region.
Tiu Laurel concluded by stating that the Philippines cannot afford to navigate these challenges alone and highlighted the importance of working closely with ASEAN member states for the common good and a food-secure ASEAN.
