The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines has indicated that the pineapple industry may see growth within the year. In 2024, the country reached approximately USD787.12 million in global exports of pineapple and related products, reflecting a 7.5% increase from 2023, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.
China received the largest share of these exports, totaling USD 183.43 million. DA spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, expressed expectations for a higher output this year. "This year we are expecting to surpass it and further grow to 3.12 million metric tons (MT)," he stated, referencing the previous year's 2.9 million MT output.
De Mesa highlighted a projected yield of around 44 MT per hectare, emphasizing the demand from China and Europe. He assured ongoing government support, including the distribution of inputs, machinery, and technology. "Research and development projects are ongoing. And we're also focusing on organic because that's one of the niche markets," he added.
Currently, nearly 24,000 pineapple farmers operate across the country, with the majority located in Mindanao.
Source: Panay News