Organic farmers eye Hong Kong, Singapore

MANILA, Philippines - Farmers of organic produce in the country are eyeing trade opportunities in Hong Kong and Singapore due to strong tourism-related demand in these countries.

Pablito Villegas, proprietor and general manager of Villegas Organic Farms, said farmers see opportunities in Hong Kong and Singapore which have a capacity to absorb 150 tons of shipments daily.

Villegas Organic Farms is a seven-hectare vegetable and poultry farm in Malvar, Batangas. Grown in the farm are assorted produce as well as French broiler and layer hens.

The farm currently supplies the produce needed by health institutions for special dietary requirements of the infirm.

Villegas said businessmen in Singapore, through Filipino trade attaches, have expressed interest in sourcing produce from the Philippines.

He said Hong Kong and Singapore are particularly interested in vegetables, coffee, coconuts and eggs.

“There have been inquiries. Their requirement is inspection by their own industry certifier,” he said.

Villegas said in terms of distance to Hong Kong and Singapore, the Philippines has an advantage even if it may face competition with Thailand that has a particularly strong agriculture sector.