Philippines, Türkiye eye deeper trade, Halal collaboration

The Philippines is stepping up agricultural ties with Türkiye, targeting stronger trade in poultry, seafood and tropical products while boosting Halal-certified feed production. 

A recent meeting between representatives of the Department of Agriculture and the Turkish Embassy focused on enhancing food security and opening new markets for high-value Philippine exports.

Philippine exports to Türkiye have jumped from $16.8 million in 2021 to  $42.2 million in 2024, reversing years of trade deficits. 

Trade surplus

A $16.0-million trade surplus was posted in the first half of 2025, driven by coconut oil, desiccated coconuts, carrageenan, tobacco and protein concentrates.

Officials are now eyeing bananas, pineapples and tuna, and positioning niche fruits such as avocados, durian, papaya and dragon fruit for Türkiye’s premium retail and foodservice markets.

In the discussions were Agriculture Undersecretary for Livestock Constante Palabrica and Undersecretary for Mindanao BARMM Concerns Zamzamin L. Ampatuan, along with officials from the Bureau of Animal Industry, National Meat Inspection Service, Bureau of Plant Industry, Special Area for Agricultural Development, and the Policy Research Service-International Affairs Division. 

The Turkish delegation was led by Ambassador H.E. Niyazi Akyol.

Regional hub for Halal-certified feed

The Philippines sees a potential to become a regional hub for Halal-certified feed, combining local corn production with Türkiye’s feed formulation expertise. 

Turkish officials underscored that their feeds contain no animal by-products and proposed the Waqf fund scheme, an Islamic social finance model channeling agricultural investments into charitable returns. 

Ampatuan welcomed the initiative, inviting Turkish participation in the November Halal Expo and encouraging investment in Philippine Halal feed development.

On poultry cooperation, Philippine officials highlighted strong biosecurity and regulatory oversight, positioning the country as a credible, science-based trade partner. 

Cooperation with TIKA

Cooperation with the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) was also spotlighted, including the donation of hauling trucks to Sorsogon farmers that would benefit 10 groups, including women’s and indigenous associations. 

Joint training, agricultural scholarships and research partnerships on sustainable farming and climate resilience were also discussed.

The meeting highlighted complementary strengths: Türkiye brings Halal standards, poultry expertise, and agricultural finance, while the Philippines contributes tropical fruits, fisheries and feed production.