The Philippines and the Czech Republic reached a mutual understanding to improve bilateral trade and widen technology transfers between the two countries, particularly in livestock and dairy production and water management.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. recently met with a delegation from the Czech Republic led by Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný in Manila, a follow-up to their meeting during the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in March 2024.
Tiu Laurel said the Philippines should learn from the Czech Republic’s success in dairy industry, water and irrigation management, livestock production and from its online platform that provides information and comprehensive solutions on agriculture, technology, machinery and direct communications with machinery producers.
The Philippines also offered to purchase bull sperm for artificial insemination to improve the quality of local herd as the Czech Republic is known as one of the top dairy producing countries in Europe and one of the major suppliers of beef.
The Philippines imports almost all its dairy requirements and sources from overseas parent stocks for cattle and other livestock.
The DA is keen on expanding the market of Philippine agricultural products within the European Union.
“We have some products ready for export so market access is also very important to us, especially the European Union which is one of the best markets in the world for our products,” said Tiu Laurel.
Výborný said his government acknowledges the needs of Philippine agriculture sector and expressed readiness to provide assistance through trade negotiations.
“We’re definitely ready to offer cooperation. Your aims and ambitions are very similar to what we have in the Czech Republic, where our agricultural sector is also undergoing dynamic changes towards modern technologies, innovations, science and research and the application of their outcomes,” Výborný said.
The European country also offered training for Filipinos on farming, livestock production and irrigation and water management.
He said the Czech Republic needs more Filipino workers to further develop the country’s agricultural sector and increase food output.