In Northern Mindanao, startups in agriculture and aquaculture often face a significant challenge: navigating the complex web of regulatory requirements. These permits and licenses are crucial but can delay the launch of new businesses and products. To address this, government agencies are stepping in to streamline the process and support aspiring entrepreneurs.
Tackling Permit Delays
Famela Racquel Villanueva, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) provincial director for Bukidnon, highlighted that many local food processing startups struggle with securing the necessary permits. “In most local food processing startups, there are permits and licenses to operate, and we are willing to assist them,” Villanueva said. For many businesses, these regulatory hurdles contribute to delays in product launches, slowing down the growth of new ventures.
To make the process easier, DTI is offering guidance and support to help businesses meet regulatory requirements, so they can focus on developing their products and reaching the market more quickly.
RAISE Initiative to Simplify Regulations
Recognizing the need for a more streamlined approach, government partners, including academic institutions, have launched the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE). This initiative aims to simplify regulatory processes for startups in agriculture and aquaculture, helping them overcome common obstacles and move forward with their business plans.
During the RAISE Summit in Northern Mindanao, key stakeholders discussed how to better support local startups by reducing administrative delays and fostering collaboration across sectors. The goal is to make it easier for entrepreneurs to comply with regulations while also encouraging innovation in these critical industries.
Fostering Innovation and Technology Adoption
At the summit, Noel Catibog, director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD), stressed the importance of adopting new technologies in the agriculture and aquaculture sectors. He emphasized that the business community plays a vital role in integrating these innovations to boost efficiency and sustainability. By supporting technology adoption, RAISE aims to help local startups grow and thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
