Coconut processing facility could be dedicated to China export market

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said Chinese food companies are seeking partners to develop a coconut processing facility to be dedicated to serving the Chinese export markets.

Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque recently met with executives from snack brand Liwayway Holdings Co. Limited (LHCL), AGL Group, and Joyvio Freshcall to explore the establishment of such a facility, the DTI said in a statement on Thursday.

It noted that Liwayway China is looking to set up a  facility in General Santos City.

Liwayway China Chairman Larry Chan also expressed interest in ube, pili nuts and specialty coffee as ingredients for the group’s products to be distributed in China.

The Philippines is the second-largest coconut producer behind Indonesia. However, coconut oil exports declined 12.9% year on year to $661.06 million in the first quarter, according to preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.

LHCL is a member of the Liwayway Group, whose portfolio includes chips, biscuits, crackers, and beverages carrying the Oishi brand.

The Liwayway group has expanded production and market operations in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, and other regional markets.

Joyvio Freshcall’s core businesses include fruit, high-quality protein, seafood, and related consumer food products.

It is a subsidiary of the Joyvio Group, the international agribusiness and food arm of Beijing-headquartered Legend Holdings.

Joyvio Freshcall is also a partner of AGL, a Shanghai-based importer and distributor of green coffee beans. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz