Philippines seeks exemption for coconut exports from US reciprocal tariff

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is seeking an exemption for coconut exports from the reciprocal tariff imposed by the United States, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

“We are seeking exemption from reciprocal tariff for Philipine key products including coconut and its derivative products,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque told reporters.

Coconut exports to the US are among those being slapped with the 19 percent reciprocal tariff that took effect on Aug. 7.

Last year, coconut oil was the Philippines’ top agricultural export to the US, generating $558.7 million.

Apart from negotiations with the US for an exemption from the reciprocal tariff, Roque said the DTI is also providing assistance to coconut exporters affected by the US tariff by helping them find new markets or buyers.

While the US is a big market for coconut exports, Philippine Coconut Authority administrator Dexter Buted told reporters that there are other markets that Philippine coconut exporters can cater to like Europe, Japan and China.

“Japan and China are possible (markets) where we can divert some of the products,” he said.

For Japan and China, he said the demand is mostly for young coconuts and coconut water.

In Europe, he said the demand is mostly for virgin coconut oil products and dedicated coconut.

Roque said the coconut industry is a priority sector for the Philippine government, with coconut being one of the enduring pillars of agriculture.

She said coconut products like virgin coconut oil, coconut water, as well as wellness products are also finding their place in the homes of consumers all over the world.

“We envision making the coconut more desirable and accessible to both Filipinos and foreigners globally or locally,” she said.