Manila: The Philippines and New Zealand are seeking to advance discussions on market access for agricultural products, as announced by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday. This initiative was a key topic during the inaugural Philippine-New Zealand Vice-Ministerial Foreign Ministry Consultations (FMC) held at the DFA office in Pasay City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the discussions focused on economic engagement, with both delegations expressing readiness to expand two-way trade and advance energy cooperation. They also emphasized the importance of progressing discussions on market access for agricultural products. However, specific details about the products involved are yet to be disclosed. The New Zealand Embassy in Manila has refrained from providing a list, citing ongoing discussions.
In previous discussions, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. highlighted ongoing talks regarding the potential entry of durian exports from the Philippines into the New Zealand market. Conversely, New Zealand has shown interest in securing 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 parties reviewed positive developments following the renewed vigor in Philippines-New Zealand relations and committed to working towards a Comprehensive Partnership by 2026.
On matters of defense and security, the delegations acknowledged the importance of the recently concluded Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) in enhancing interoperability, maritime security, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). They also pledged to intensify cooperation against transnational crimes.
The delegations also recognized New Zealand's support for various developmental initiatives, including agricultural programs, joint efforts on climate resilience, and peace and development initiatives in Mindanao. Additionally, they welcomed the growing cooperation on education, notably the increased Manaaki New Zealand scholarship opportunities for Filipinos, and discussed potential collaboration in preserving indigenous heritage.
The DFA noted that the consultations 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 serves as a regular platform for the Philippines and New Zealand to review and advance bilateral relations, previously held at the Assistant Secretary level.
The next Vice-Ministerial FMC will be hosted in New Zealand in 2027, with plans for virtual intersessional consultations.
