DTI explores direct Guimaras mango, dragon fruit exports to Netherlands

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GUIMARAS — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Guimaras and DTI Region 6, in collaboration with the Supply Chain and Logistics Group (SCLG) led by Undersecretary Jean Pacheco and with support from the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC)-Brussels headed by Commercial Counsellor Magnolia Misolas-Ashley, are actively exploring direct export opportunities for Guimaras’ world-famous mangoes and dragon fruit to the Netherlands.

From Feb. 23 to 24, 2026, DTI Guimaras and DTI Region 6, together with key logistics partners — Airspeed, In-Line Forwarder, F2 Logistics and Netherlands-based importer JMR World Trading BV — conducted a two-day assessment mission to evaluate export readiness and compliance requirements for the two products.

The delegation included Guimaras mango growers, representatives from the Guimaras Provincial Government — particularly the Provincial Economic Development Office and the Provincial Office for Agricultural Services — as well as the Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Plant Quarantine and the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry. Discussions focused on aligning export procedures, regulatory compliance and logistics requirements for entry into the European market.

On Feb. 23, the team visited Guimaras Wonders Farm and inspected the hot water treatment facility at the Guimaras Mango Growers and Producers Development Cooperative to ensure adherence to European safety and phytosanitary standards. Hot water treatment is a mandatory post-harvest process required by the European Union for imported tropical fruits to eliminate pests such as fruit flies.

The delegation also visited Kokomojo Mango Farm to discuss sustainable supply chain strategies for both fresh and processed mango products.

On Feb. 24, the delegation proceeded to NJST Farm to explore opportunities for exporting dragon fruit to the Netherlands. The visit aimed to gather insights, relevant data and market information to assess the potential for exporting dragon fruit products to Europe.

Although still in the exploration and trial stage, the initiative strengthens the global competitiveness of Guimaras and its Geographical Indication-certified products. Guimaras mangoes received GI certification from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, distinguishing them as a product whose quality is linked to their specific geographic origin.

Through the coordinated efforts of DTI Guimaras, DTI Region 6, SCLG and PTIC, the project seeks to pave the way for the direct export of Guimaras mangoes and dragon fruit to Europe.

The initiative underscores the strong collaboration among national and local government agencies, logistics partners and local producers working together to open new international market opportunities and position Guimaras as a competitive player in the global agri-food trade.