In a notable reversal, Philippine banana exports in 2023 marked the end of a four-year downturn, buoyed by increased outputs from locales previously blighted by Panama disease. The Philippine Statistics Authority reports a 3.5% rise in shipments, totaling 2.354 million metric tons, over the previous year. This resurgence also saw export values hit a three-year peak at $1.22 billion, up by 11% from 2022's figures.
Attributing this rebound to the relentless efforts in rehabilitating farms affected by Panama disease, Stephen Antig, executive director of the Pilipino Banana Growers and Exporters Association, remains cautiously optimistic. Despite the uptick, challenges such as stiff global competition and recent flooding in Mindanao temper the industry's celebrations. These floods threaten to dampen export figures in the upcoming quarter by disrupting plantation operations.
Antig also expressed concerns over Guatemala's ascent as the world's second-largest banana exporter, a position previously held by the Philippines. He highlighted ongoing struggles to expand or restore Panama disease-ravaged areas, estimating a conservative 17,000 to 18,000 hectares currently affected. Despite these hurdles, there's hope that continuous rehabilitation efforts will bolster future production.
Source: philstar.com