The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI) announced on Monday, that through the National Plant Quarantine Services Division (NPQSD), fresh Hass avocados are now being exported to South Korea.

The first batch of avocado export, the DA-BPI said, had a ceremonial send-off at the KTC Port Tibungco, Davao City on 30 September 2023.

"It was on September 25, 2009, when the Philippines, through the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), officially expressed its intent to export fresh Hass avocado fruits to Korea, responding to the request of Dole Philippines," the DA-BPI said in a press statement.

It added that the Department of Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency of the Republic of Korea and DA-BPI reached a historic agreement on 19 June 2023, which came into effect on 8 September this year.

"This marks the beginning of a fruitful trade relationship between the two nations as the people of South Korea can finally taste the creamy and nutrient-rich Hass avocados from the Philippines," the DA-BPI said.

The initial shipment of 3,040 boxes, with an estimated value of US$48,433, is expected to arrive in Pyongtaek Port, South Korea on 8 October 2023.