PH Considers Importing Additional 8,000 Metric Tons of Fish

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is evaluating the importation of 8,000 metric tons of small pelagic fish, including galunggong (round scad), mackerel, moon fish, and bonito. These imports aim to stabilize fish prices and ensure sufficient supply amid recent storms and ongoing fishing restrictions.

DA Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Arnel de Mesa announced on Tuesday that the fish imports are expected to arrive in early December, emphasizing the need for proactive measures during the closed fishing season.

“We just want to ensure there will be no problem later on… there’s a closed fishing season and a series of consecutive storms,” de Mesa explained during a press briefing in Quezon City.

Importation Details

This planned 8,000 metric tons is in addition to the 30,000 metric tons of imported fish authorized by the DA in October. The target delivery for the shipments is within the first two weeks of December.

“It has to arrive before the end of the year,” de Mesa added.

Price Monitoring

Recent price monitoring by the DA reveals that local galunggong prices in Metro Manila have slightly increased from ₱220-₱340 per kilo in October to ₱240-₱320 per kilo in November. Imported galunggong currently sells at ₱240 per kilo, compared to the previous range of ₱210-₱300 per kilo.

Challenges and Rationale

The closed fishing season in areas like Northern Palawan, which began on November 1, and the impact of consecutive storms, have contributed to potential supply shortages. The additional fish imports are intended to prevent significant price spikes and ensure market stability.

The DA is set to announce its final decision on the importation plan within the coming week.