Philippine vegetable producers are looking to work more closely to consolidate supply in preparation for a common market in South East Asia.

The Malaya reported a common market should be established amongst Association of South East Asian member countries by 2015.

Growers believe a strong union will help them meet year-round domestic demand as well as capitalise on export opportunities.

Philippine Vegetable Industry Board chairman Marcelino Remotigue said supply from the various regions needed to be coordinated.

'We need to improve production by stabilising the volume of vegetables produced as well as the quality, sustainability of supply and, lastly, reliability of supply.'