NZ food companies aim to strengthen RP foothold

CEBU, Philippines – Companies in the food and beverage sector of New Zealand are here in Cebu to strengthen and create new business ties with its counterpart in the industry as well as showcase to the Cebuanos more of the food and beverages the country is producing.

The New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is one of the exhibitors of the three-day 11th Cebu Food Expo, which kicked-off last Thursday, at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

NZTE is the New Zealand government's national economic development agency. It works to stimulate economic growth by helping boost export earnings, strengthen regional economies and deliver economic development assistance to industries and individual businesses. Through its global network of offices NZTE works with international businesses and investors, connecting them to New Zealand business opportunities.

NZTE is showcasing for the first time in Cebu its famous products such as Zespri kiwifruit, wines, dairy products and traceable meat at its booth

 “This presence aims to strengthen New Zealand’s foothold in the Philippine market. This also presents an opportunity for the Philippine market to get more acquainted with products that are delicious, wholesome and sustainably produced,” according to a press statement. 

“Cebu is recognized as one of Asia’s quintessential island destinations. New Zealand is looking to affirm its ability to provide a wide selection of premium food and beverage products to the city, especially in the HRI and tourism sectors.” New Zealand Trade Commissioner to Manila, Ramoncito Bernales added.

New Zealand ’s food and beverage is the country’s largest manufacturing sector in terms of total output, exporting to 180 countries around the world. In the last 17 years, food and beverage exports have increased to US$15.77 billion in 2009 from US$4.99 billion in 1990.

New Zealand ’s exports to the Philippines from January to May this year totaled US$239.1 million, a 67 percent increase from the same period last year. US$271.1 million of the total amount was attributed to the meat and dairy sectors.

With New Zealand ’s government agencies governing the food and beverage industry such as the New Zealand Food Safety Authority and the Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand strictly enforcing food safety regulations, food and wine exports from this country are ensured to be “of high quality.” 

 “This export success is underpinned by strong commitments towards achieving industry-certified levels in the areas of food traceability, innovation and sustainable production. Knowing your food is one thing, but being able to find exactly where your lamb chop previously grazed is another.”   (THE FREEMAN)