April 23, 2004

Philippines' Swift Set To Export Chicken To Japan

Swift Foods, Inc., one of the Philippines' major poultry producers, said Friday it is in the final stages of negotiations for the export of chicken parts to Japan.

In a statement, Swift president Bernardo Concepcion said the company is now working closely with Sumikin Busan and Nissho Iwai in finalizing a supply agreement for the next three to six months.

Representatives of both Japanese firms have visited Swifts' poultry processing facilities in the country, Concepcion said.

"Both buyers were happy and impressed with our facilities in Cagayan de Oro and the quality of chicken meat produced from these plants," he said.

Concepcion didn't specify the volume of the exports to Japan.

The outbreak of the bird flu disease, which affected many Asian countries, has created an opportunity for the Philippines to export chicken products as the country has remained free of the virus.