EU-ASEAN Business Council seeks deeper agricultural cooperation with the Philippines

The EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) recently met with Philippine agriculture officials to explore cooperation in trade, sustainability, and innovation, underscoring Europe’s growing interest in the country’s agricultural sector.

The meeting, held with the Department of Agriculture (DA), aimed to strengthen partnerships between the European Union and the Philippines in areas such as climate-smart and regenerative farming, food security, and agri-trade development.

Agriculture Undersecretary Roger Navarro welcomed the EU-ABC delegation, recognizing the Council’s efforts to promote growth and innovation in the region.

“This cooperation between the Philippines and EU-ASEAN Business Council will continue to enhance productivity, competitiveness, and food security not just in the Philippines but across the Southeast Asian region,” Navarro said.

He also acknowledged EU-ABC’s participation in the 47th ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) Meeting and its support for ASEAN’s 2026 Priority Economic Deliverable (PED) on the Implementation Plan for Regenerative and Resilient Agriculture. The Philippines is set to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026, with plans to advance climate-smart and sustainable farming systems.

EU-ABC Executive Director Chris Humphrey reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to working closely with ASEAN governments and the private sector, emphasizing sustainable agriculture, fair trade, and inclusive partnerships with rural communities.

He highlighted the Council’s ongoing engagement through regional events such as the ASEAN Health Summit in Kuala Lumpur and the annual Sustainability Summit hosted by its Philippine Chapter, and its continuing support for the conclusion of the long-awaited EU–Philippines Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The two sides discussed potential areas for collaboration, including animal health, dairy development, agricultural mechanization, organic and regenerative agriculture, and climate-resilient farming practices.

Also present at the meeting were Agriculture Undersecretary Constante Palabrica, National Dairy Authority Administrator Marcus Andaya, Bureau of Animal Industry OIC-Director Dr. Christian Daquigan, Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service Director Junibert de Sagun, and representatives from the DA’s International Affairs Division.

The EU delegation included European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Executive Director Florian Gottien and representatives from several European companies.

The meeting reinforced EU’s interest in building stronger agricultural and trade linkages with the Philippines- seen as an emerging partner for sustainable food production and regional cooperation in the region.