DA Plans Higher Pork Import Allocation for Meat Processors to Stabilize Prices

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is looking to allocate a majority of the 55,000 metric tons (MT) of pork imports under the Minimum Access Volume (MAV) quota to meat processors, as pork prices soar past ₱400 per kilogram.

Planned Allocation:

• 30,000 MT – For meat processors, to help stabilize prices.
• 15,000 MT – Retained by the DA, assigned to either Food Terminal Inc. (FTI) or Planters Products Inc., allowing the government to intervene in price control if needed.
• 10,000 MT – Distributed equally among traders.

Why It Matters:

• Pork prices in Metro Manila range from ₱230 to ₱435/kg, still affected by the African Swine Fever outbreak.
• Lower Tariffs: Under Executive Order 50, pork imports within the MAV quota are taxed at 15%, compared to 25% for excess imports.
• Meat Industry Support: The Philippine Association of Meat Processors Inc. welcomed the move, citing its role in keeping processed meat prices stable.

The final allocation will be confirmed in the coming weeks, as the DA seeks to control pork prices and ensure market stability.