DA to Suspend Pork Price Cap Due to Low Retailer Compliance

The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced plans to temporarily suspend the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for pork products in wet markets due to poor compliance among vendors.

According to DA Undersecretary for Livestock Constante Palabrica, the removal of the MSRP will be formally declared within 24 hours. The agency intends to reassess the policy and introduce a revised pricing scheme that’s more practical for pork retailers to follow.

“This is a one step backward, two steps forward move,” Palabrica explained, citing only about 30% compliance since the policy was introduced on March 10. He said the temporary lift will allow the DA to study and improve the system.

The current MSRP sets prices at ₱380 per kilo for liempo, ₱350 for kasim and pigue, and ₱300 for wholesale rates between traders and retailers. The policy excludes supermarkets and hypermarkets.

Palabrica noted that retailers face challenges due to supply shortages linked to African swine fever and increased demand during the election season. He added that vendors struggle to offset costs, especially with restrictions on selling other pork cuts and biosecurity expenses.

The DA aims to develop a more effective pricing model that ensures both market stability and retailer participation.