Filipino consumers can now enjoy premium Korean grapes following the official entry of Korean grapes into the Philippine market after 18 years of quarantine negotiations between Korea and the Philippines.
To mark the milestone, the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation (aT) held the ‘Korean Premium Grape Launching Show’ on September 29 at Solaire Resort Entertainment City in Parañaque.
The event brought together Korean grape producers and exporters, Philippine distributors, buyers, foodservice industry representatives, and influencers to introduce the quality, variety, and market potential of Korean grapes.
Quarantine negotiations for the importation of Korean grapes into the Philippines had been ongoing for approximately 18 years before they were successfully concluded in November 2025. The agreement paved the way for the official export of Korean grapes to the Philippine market beginning this year.
‘Today marks an important milestone as Korean grapes officially enter the Philippine market,’ said Kim Kyoung-cheol, Director of the ASEAN Regional Headquarters of aT. ‘Following many years of efforts to complete the quarantine negotiations, we hope Korean grapes will become a new premium fruit choice for Filipino consumers.’
The event was also attended by key Korean representatives, including Lee Seung-hee, CEO of K-Grape; Kwon Min-kyung, Team Leader of Gyeongsangbuk-do Agricultural Research and Extension Services; and Lee Han-il, Minister of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines.
Several premium Korean grape varieties were featured during the launch.
Shine Muscat, one of Korea’s best-known premium grape varieties, is recognized for its high sweetness, crisp texture, and distinctive muscat aroma. It is seedless and can be eaten with the skin, while its firm flesh and good storage quality make it suitable for long-distance transport and export.
Kyoho is known for its large berries, soft flesh, and abundant juice, offering a rich sweetness and refreshing taste.
Coco Ball, a newly developed Korean grape variety, features a round and attractive appearance, crisp texture, high sweetness, and abundant juiciness. Its distinctive
appearance and eating quality are expected to offer Philippine consumers a new premium grape option.
Glory Star is a red grape variety known for its high sugar content, crisp and refreshing texture, vivid color, and large berries. Its good storage quality also makes it suitable for the premium export market.
Through the launch, aT aims to strengthen cooperation with Philippine distributors and buyers and expand awareness of Korean grapes through tasting events, consumer promotions, and other market development activities.
The entry of Korean grapes into the Philippines is expected to further diversify the country’s premium imported fruit market while giving Filipino consumers greater access to high-quality Korean fresh produce.