Banana imports timeline

1995

The Philippines seeks access for Cavendish bananas

1999

The Philippines prioritises request

2000

The Import Risk Analysis (IRA) formally commences

2003

WTO dispute lodged (remains dormant) 

2008

The IRA report is completed

The full report is available on DAFF’s ‘Bananas from the Philippines‘ page. 

2009

Federal government makes a policy determination

2018

The Philippines request Australia consider alternative measures

September 2025

16 September – Public notification of assessment

24 September – ABGC hosts industry imports meeting

October 2025

DAFF in-person meetings – NSW & QLD

November 2025

DAFF in-person meeting – WA

Notes from the October and November DAFF meetings are available on DAFF’s ‘Bananas from the Philippines‘ page. 

First half 2026

Tech visit to the Philippines*
Issues paper released*

Late 2026-early 2027

Draft report released*

*subject to change