The Philippines and Cambodia are seeking to expand agricultural trade and investment as both countries move to strengthen food security and deepen cooperation in the agri-fishery sector.

In a news release Friday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said a recent meeting between Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Cambodian Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina, together with a business delegation in Manila, reflects the two countries’ commitment to broadening economic ties through agriculture and fisheries.

Tiu Laurel said the visit reflects the deepening strength of bilateral relationship and the shared commitment of both countries to advance cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, and broader economic development.

“The visit opens the door to greater collaboration in trade, private-sector partnerships and investments across the agri-fishery value chain,” he said.

The DA noted that trade in agricultural products between the Philippines and Cambodia reached USD15.9 million in 2025, and has continued to improve this year.

Tiu Laurel said the Cambodian mission is expected to result in new business partnerships between the two Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states.

“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 discussions also come as the Philippines advances programs to modernize agriculture through climate-resilient farming, improved biosecurity, digital technologies and stronger value chains.

Cambodia is also developing its agriculture sector, creating opportunities for technology exchange and private investment.

The DA, meanwhile, stressed that the visit goes beyond bilateral relations as it also reflects a wider effort among ASEAN member states to strengthen regional food systems and make supply chains more resilient amid global economic uncertainty.

Rather than depending heavily on markets outside the region, Southeast Asian countries are increasingly looking to boost trade and cooperation within ASEAN to support long-term food security.

“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. (PNA)