Banana fiber eyed for domestic industry boost
The Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA) is looking into leveraging banana fiber as support for the sustainable development of the domestic sector.
PhilFIDA recently convened a special meeting to explore the potential of banana fiber as a complementary material in strengthening the fiber industry.
“While banana fiber is more accessible and creates added livelihood opportunities from postharvest stalks, it remains weaker than abaca in textile strength and durability, warranting further research and development,” the agency said in a social media post.
PhilFIDA said the meeting covered supply chain issues given the weather sensitivity of abaca.
Also on the agenda were banana fiber-based products, woven goods and export operations. Discussed as well was the acquisition of decortication machinery to enhance extraction efficiency.
Participants from the government and the private sector emphasized the need to adopt sustainable production. This includes renewable energy-powered decorticating machines.
They also proposed partnering with the Department of Energy and the Department of Agriculture (DA) to develop greener extraction technologies.
Before the meeting, PhilFIDA officials met with the DA’s Project Management Office to discuss proposed engagements in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
PhilFIDA said it will fully support the collaboration through capacity-building training, production assistance and mechanization interventions to strengthen and expand fiber industry development in the identified areas.
“PhilFIDA remains committed to innovation, sustainability and inclusive growth—advancing research, technology and partnerships to further strengthen the country’s fiber industry,” it added.
