Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved a significant increase in the country’s lower-tariff pork import quota to support the domestic market, which continues to suffer from the consequences of African swine fever (ASF).
Under the government’s decision, the preferential pork import quota was raised from 54,210 metric tons to 204,210 metric tons — nearly a fourfold increase.
The government said the measure is intended to stabilize pork supplies and help contain price increases for consumers. Domestic production continues to face pressure due to the spread of ASF, which has significantly reduced the country’s pig population in recent years.
The increase in import volumes is expected to partially offset supply shortages on the domestic market and reduce inflationary pressure in the food sector.
The Philippines remains one of Asia’s largest pork importers and has become heavily dependent on external supplies following major losses in the swine industry caused by ASF.
Thus, the decision to expand the import quota reflects the government’s continued active intervention to stabilize the pork market amid ongoing epizootic challenges.
PigUA.info based on materials from Reuters