MANILA, NOV 18 – The Philippines has made its first shipment of Hass avocados to Japan, said Philippine Agriculture Minister Francisco Tiu Laurel yesterday.
The Philippines became the first country in Asia to export Hass avocados to Japan, said Tokyo’s Agricultural Attaché, Aleli Maghirang.
“This provides the best opportunity for local producers to capitalize on Japan’s growing demand for fresh fruit.”
Director of the Plant Industry Bureau, Glenn Panganiban said it took more than a decade to gain access to the Japanese market for Hass avocados.
The Hass avocado variety, beloved for its smaller size and mottled skin that turns purplish-black when ripe, has become popular around the world as a main ingredient in salads and sandwiches. – Xinhua
