MANILA, Philippines — With their crisp texture, juicy flavor, and eye-catching colors, French apples are poised to make a powerful impression in the Philippines. As consumers across the country increasingly seek high-quality, health-conscious, and globally inspired food choices, France is proud to introduce its finest apple varieties—a combination of tradition, innovation, and care in every bite.
A Strong and Diverse Harvest
This year, France anticipates a satisfying apple harvest of 1.485 million tons, an increase of 4% compared to 2024 and 3% above the three-year average.
Well-known international varieties such as Gala, Golden, Granny Smith, Fuji, and Red apples remain stable (-1%), while premium “Club” varieties like Pink Lady, Jazz, Joya, and Juliet are up by 2%. Traditional local varieties like Chantecler, Canada, and Boskoop, on the other hand, have increased by 3%.
A major highlight this season is the rise of new-generation apple varieties, expected to reach 145,000 tons in 2025—a significant +51% growth year-on-year. Meanwhile, the total European harvest is at its lowest since 2017, estimated at 10.45 million tons, highlighting the strength and resilience of the French apple industry.
The Philippines: A Growing Appetite for Quality
The Philippines is emerging as an exciting and dynamic market. With increasing demand for nutritious, diverse, and high-quality products, French apples are perfectly positioned to become a favorite among Filipino families.
“The Philippines is a key partner in our international development. With its dynamic and discerning consumers, this market represents a true opportunity to share the excellence and diversity of French apples. We’re excited to bring them to the Philippines, where there’s a strong appreciation for healthy, high-quality food. Beyond trade, we aim to build a lasting relationship based on quality, trust, and sustainability,” said Daniel Soares, International Director at Interfel.
Towards a Sustainable and Flavorful Future
French apples are grown using eco-responsible practices, with a strong commitment to biodiversity, traceability, and varietal richness. As Filipino consumers continue to seek food that aligns with both taste and values, French apples offer a perfect fit—delivering freshness, flavor, and sustainability in every bite.
Taste France Campaign: Bringing French Apples to Filipino Tables
As a key step in establishing a strong presence in the Philippine market, Interfel is launching a bold, nationwide promotional campaign under the Taste France banner, running from November 2025 to February 2026. Highlights include:
- A press and KOL event featuring celebrated Filipino chefs, Chef Rolando and Chef Jacqueline Laudico, who creatively blended Filipino cuisine with French apples in a festive culinary experience
- In-store promotions at leading supermarkets and specialty outlets to encourage discovery and purchase at the point of sale
The arrival of French apples in the Philippines marks a new chapter in the country’s fruit market. Grown with care in France’s most renowned orchards, these apples embody a tradition of excellence, combining freshness, flavor, and quality that set them apart. Their introduction gives Filipino consumers the opportunity to experience a Taste of France through one of its most iconic fruits.
Brought to the Philippines under the Taste France banner, this initiative highlights the growing connection between French producers and Filipino consumers. More than a promotional effort, it represents a long-term commitment to bringing premium French products to local tables and building a sustainable bridge between the two countries. Through this campaign, Filipinos will discover that French apples are not just fruit—they are a symbol of heritage, craftsmanship, and the French art of living.
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Festive Recipe: French Apple and Leche Flan Tart
To celebrate the season, Interfel shares a holiday-inspired dessert that brings together the creamy richness of a Filipino favorite with the elegant sweetness of French apples, perfect for noche buena or any festive table.
French Apple and Leche Flan Tart
A fusion of creamy Filipino leche flan and caramelized French apples in a buttery tart crust
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
- 1 tbsp. sugar
- ¼ tsp. salt
- 3-4 tbsp. cold water
For the leche flan layer:
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 can (300 ml) condensed milk
- ½ can (190 ml) evaporated milk
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
For the apple topping:
- 2 French apples (e.g. Gala or Pink Lady), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp. brown sugar
- 1 tbsp. butter
- ½ tsp. cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust. Mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until crumbly. Add cold water gradually until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes, roll out, and press into a tart pan. Pre-bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes.
- Make the flan. Whisk egg yolks, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla. Pour into the pre-baked crust.
- Caramelize the apples. Sauté sliced apples in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for 5-7 minutes until golden.
- Assemble. Layer the apples on top of the flan mixture. Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 30-35 minutes or until the flan is set.
- Chill and serve. Cool completely, refrigerate for 2 hours, and serve cold. Optional: Drizzle with caramel or sprinkle with powdered sugar.
This delightful tart is a beautiful expression of French-Philippine culinary harmony, and a symbol of the partnership to come.
About Interfel
Interfel (Interprofession des Fruits et Légumes Frais) is the French fresh fruit and vegetable interprofessional association. It unites all stakeholders in the fresh produce supply chain, from growers to distributors, and is committed to promoting French fruits and vegetables, both in France and internationally. Interfel is supported by the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty.
