PHILIPPINE MARKET NOW OPEN FOR U.S. FRESH POTATOES

WASHINGTON, D.C.-After four years of work, the National Potato Council (NPC) and the United States Potato Board (USPB) are pleased the government of the Philippines has revised its import requirements to allow for entry of U.S. fresh table-stock potatoes. Previous to this change, only fresh U.S. potatoes destined for processing into potato chips were allowed entry into the Philippines. Recent economic growth, along with a population approaching 100 million, has propelled demand for imported foods in the Philippines. The Philippines became the fastest growing economy in Asia during the first quarter of 2013 with GDP growth at 7.8 percent. Potatoes are a popular vegetable and are used in a variety of local dishes. Filipino consumers increasingly prefer to purchase groceries from modern retail outlets, which provide a convenient format for one-stop shopping. This preference has led to growth in the hypermarket retail format where imported table-stock potatoes are most likely to be sold. U.S. exports of fresh chipping potatoes to the Philippines have grown steadily over the past five years and were 5,289 metric tons, valued at $2,843,016 in 2012. U.S. exports of frozen potato products to the Philippines were $38 million in 2012. "The strong interest in U.S. potato products in the market bodes well for U.S. table-stock exports" stated John Toaspern, USPB International Marketing Vice President. However, he cautioned the russet type potato is not well known in the market, and there is substantial local production so exports will take some time to grow. "What is needed now is for U.S. growers and shippers to make contact with the importers in the Philippines" said Sarah Reece, USPB International Marketing Manager. "From there the USPB must build demand for U.S. potatoes with retailers, the food service industry and consumers in the market. Fortunately the USPB already has program funding in place to do this and will begin right away."