GUIMARAS — Guimaras Geographical Indication (GI) mangoes have reached a historic milestone with their first direct export shipment to Europe, opening new opportunities for expanded market access and greater economic benefits for local mango growers and producers.
The ceremonial send-off for the inaugural export shipment was held on June 10 at Guimaras Wonders Farm, marking a significant achievement for the mango industry in Western Visayas.
The shipment introduces Guimaras GI mangoes to key European markets, including Belgium, Germany, France, Spain, and the Netherlands, further strengthening the province’s reputation for producing some of the world’s finest mangoes.
Officials said the export initiative serves both as a promotional campaign and a market-testing effort aimed at generating interest among European importers and consumers.
The first shipment consists of 100 kilograms of Guimaras GI mangoes exported by Guimaras Wonders Farm. Belgium will serve as the port of entry before the mangoes are distributed to other European destinations.
The export was made possible through the collaboration of several government agencies and private sector partners, including the Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas (DA-WV), Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Provincial Government of Guimaras, Airspeed Philippines, Philippine Airlines, and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Brussels.
DA-WV Regional Technical Director for Operations Maria Teresa Solis said the successful export reflects years of perseverance, strong government support, and the exceptional quality of Guimaras mangoes.
“The Department of Agriculture has continuously supported producers and exporters by sponsoring participation in national and international trade fairs and exhibitions,” Solis said.
She also credited mango farmers, producers, and quality assurance personnel for their contributions to the achievement.
“As this export initiative expands, I hope it will create more opportunities not only for one exporter but also for other mango farmers and producers in the province,” she added.
Airspeed Philippines representative Christopher Verne Arbon highlighted the importance of collaboration and efficient logistics in bringing local agricultural products to international markets.
“This achievement is the result of nearly two years of preparation and hard work,” Arbon said.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would pave the way for more export opportunities for products from Guimaras and the rest of Western Visayas.
“Our goal is to create a seamless export link not only to Europe but also to develop additional opportunities in markets such as the Middle East and beyond,” he added.
Meanwhile, BPI-National Seed Quality Control Services Assistant Director for Regulatory Services Ruel Gesmundo described the shipment as a landmark achievement that demonstrates the quality and global competitiveness of Philippine agricultural products.
“This achievement represents more than just a successful shipment. It demonstrates what can be achieved when government agencies, local government units, industry partners, and producers work together toward a common goal,” Gesmundo said.
The direct export marks a major step in expanding the global presence of Guimaras mangoes and is expected to encourage more international trade opportunities for the province’s agricultural sector./PN
