August 18, 2006

China, the Philippines discuss corn cooperation

Jilin's provincial government and the Philippines on Aug 16 organised a joint China-Philippines trade forum on corn, which was held at the Changchun International Exhibition Center.

The focal topic of this forum was on enhancing cooperation and propelling industry development forward for both sides.

Jilin, a north-eastern province in China, occupies a strong position as a region of modern agriculture, says Tomas Hosen, who led the Philippine delegation. The forum, he added, was an opportune time for the Philippine participants to learn about new technologies in China and incorporate these to improve local agriculture back home.

Yang Qingcai, deputy governor of Jilin province and honorary president of the forum, said that such a bilateral framework could strengthen ties in corn trade, the sharing of relevant technologies and equipment. The Jilin government could work to improve corn planting and agri-processing capabilities in the Philippines which would, at the same time, find a ready export market for its corn products in China.