ANOTHER batch of fresh Saba/Cardava bananas from Davao Region was shipped to Auckland, New Zealand, on Friday, July 11, reflecting the region’s expanding agricultural export market.
The export is bound for Fresh Produce Group NZ Ltd., a New Zealand-based grower, marketer, and exporter that supplies premium fresh fruit and vegetables globally.
In a statement, the Department of Agriculture (DA) XI said that the bananas are sourced directly from accredited farms in Davao del Norte.
The shipment consists of a 40-foot refrigerated container carrying 1,400 boxes of bananas, with each box weighing 12 kilograms.
The agency said the boxes are palletized and packed to ensure proper handling and product preservation during transit.
“This second export order was secured after the first container arrived in excellent condition, passing the New Zealand buyer’s stringent quality expectations,” the agency said.
DA is expecting more regular shipments in the coming months as market confidence for Saba bananas continues to grow.
“To guarantee that the export meets international standards, the bananas were processed in an accredited packing facility in strict compliance with the food safety and phytosanitary requirements of the Plant Quarantine Service,” it added.
DA XI led the send-off ceremony, organized by the Bureau of Plant Industry-National Plant Quarantine Services Division XI.
DA XI regional executive director Macario D. Gonzaga and regional technical director for operations Marie Ann M. Constantino, along with personnel from the DA Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division and the High Value Crops Development Program, were present during the send-off.
