Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

About PBGEA (Pilipino Banana Growers & Exporters Association, Inc.)

The Pilipino Banana Growers & Exporters Association, Inc. (PBGEA) is the leading industry organization representing banana growers and exporters in the Philippines. Established to support and promote the country's banana industry, PBGEA plays a crucial role in advocating for industry interests, enhancing trade relations, and ensuring sustainable banana production practices.

PBGEA is headquartered in Davao City, Philippines, the heart of the country’s banana-growing region, where most of the Cavendish bananas exported worldwide are produced. The association is composed of major banana producers, exporters, and industry stakeholders who collectively contribute to the growth of the Philippine banana export sector.

Core Business and Industry Representation

PBGEA serves as the primary organization representing banana growers and exporters in the Philippines, particularly focusing on Cavendish bananas, which account for a significant share of the country's agricultural exports.

Key Functions of PBGEA:

• Industry Advocacy: Engages with government agencies to address industry concerns, trade policies, and export regulations.
• Research and Development: Supports advancements in banana cultivation, disease control, and post-harvest handling to enhance productivity and quality.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Promotes eco-friendly farming practices, fair labor policies, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.
• Trade and Export Facilitation: Assists member companies in expanding their global market reach and improving export logistics.
• Collaboration with International Markets: Engages with global trade organizations, importers, and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with international trade standards.

The Philippine Banana Export Industry

Bananas are the Philippines' second-largest agricultural export, contributing billions of pesos to the country's economy. The Cavendish banana remains the dominant variety exported, supplying major markets across Asia, the Middle East, North America, and Europe.

Banana Export Statistics

• The Philippines exported approximately 2.5 million metric tons of bananas in 2023.
• The banana industry contributes to over 500,000 jobs nationwide, including farming, processing, logistics, and trade.
• The country is among the top three banana exporters globally, competing with Ecuador and Costa Rica.
• The key export markets for Philippine bananas include Japan (36%), China (31%), South Korea (8%), and the Middle East (10%).

Challenges and Industry Advocacy

Despite the Philippines' strong position in the banana export market, the industry faces several challenges, including:

• Panama Disease (Tropical Race 4 - TR4): A major threat to banana plantations that requires extensive research and countermeasures.
• Climate Change and Natural Disasters: Typhoons and erratic weather patterns impact banana production.
• International Trade Barriers: Tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and phytosanitary regulations imposed by importing countries.
• Labor Issues: Ensuring fair wages, worker safety, and social compliance in banana plantations.

PBGEA works closely with government agencies, research institutions, and international partners to address these challenges and ensure the industry's long-term sustainability.

Sustainable Practices and Certifications

As a key industry association, PBGEA promotes sustainable banana farming practices and encourages its members to obtain international certifications for quality assurance and responsible agriculture. Some of the key certifications upheld by PBGEA-affiliated exporters include:

• GlobalG.A.P. Certification – Ensuring sustainable and safe agricultural practices.
• Rainforest Alliance Certification – Promoting environmental and social responsibility in banana production.
• ISO 22000 – Food safety management system compliance.
• Fair Trade Certification – Supporting fair labor standards and equitable trade practices.

These certifications help Philippine banana exporters maintain credibility in international markets and meet consumer demand for responsibly sourced products.

Market Reach and Export Logistics

PBGEA member companies manage a robust global supply chain, ensuring timely banana exports to key markets. The logistics and distribution network includes:

• Modern Packing Facilities: Utilizing advanced technology for sorting, quality control, and packaging.
• Cold Chain Logistics: Maintaining optimal freshness and shelf-life during transportation.
• Strategic Port Access: Using ports in Davao, Cebu, and Manila for efficient export operations.

Industry Achievements and Future Prospects

PBGEA and its member companies have achieved significant milestones in the banana industry:

• Expansion of Philippine Banana Exports: Increased market share in China, the Middle East, and Russia.
• Adoption of High-Yield and Disease-Resistant Banana Varieties: Addressing challenges posed by Panama Disease.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Implementation of carbon footprint reduction programs in banana farms.
• Trade Policy Advocacy: Securing lower tariffs and improved trade terms with importing countries.

Looking ahead, PBGEA is committed to strengthening the Philippine banana industry’s global competitiveness by investing in technology, expanding market access, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Conclusion

As the leading organization for banana growers and exporters in the Philippines, PBGEA plays a critical role in shaping the future of the industry. With its commitment to sustainability, research, and global trade development, the association continues to drive growth in the Philippine banana export sector, ensuring its position as a key player in the international fruit trade.