The Philippines and Cambodia are seeking to expand agricultural trade and investment as both countries move to strengthen business partnerships, improve food security and deepen economic cooperation across the agri-fishery sector.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. welcomed Cambodian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina and a business delegation to Manila, describing the visit as an opportunity to translate growing diplomatic relations into stronger commercial ties.

“Your visit reflects the deepening strength of our bilateral relationship and our shared commitment to advancing cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, and broader economic development,” Tiu Laurel said.

Although bilateral agricultural trade reached $15.9 million in 2025, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said significant opportunities remain to increase trade, encourage private-sector collaboration and attract investments throughout the agricultural value chain.

Tiu Laurel said trade between the two countries has continued to gain momentum this year, expressing optimism that the Cambodian mission would lead to new business agreements and long-term partnerships.

“In 2026, there is significant growth in trade between the Philippines and Cambodia, and we’re looking forward to continuing that trajectory. Hopefully something good and more deals will come out of this mission,” he said.

The DA said discussions also covered opportunities to cooperate on climate-resilient agriculture, biosecurity, digital farming technologies and value chain development as both countries work to modernize their agricultural sectors.

The visit comes as Southeast Asian economies seek to strengthen intra-ASEAN trade, reduce supply chain vulnerabilities and build a more resilient regional food system amid global economic uncertainty.

Rather than relying heavily on distant export markets, ASEAN members are increasingly pursuing closer regional partnerships to improve food production, facilitate trade and expand investment opportunities.

“At the end of the day, we cannot afford to do it alone. The Philippines needs its ASEAN brothers to work closely for the common good and a common food-secure ASEAN,” Tiu Laurel said.