June 25, 2024

British Chamber supports boosting UK pork exports to the Philippines

The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) has reiterated its support for increasing British pork exports to the Philippines, aiming to help manage inflation and ensure food security amidst ongoing challenges in the local agricultural sector, including El Nino, La Nina phenomena, and the African swine fever (ASF), The Philippine Star reported.

Recent developments include the approval of the Comprehensive Tariff Programme by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board, chaired by Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. This programme aims to adjust tariff rates to ensure access to basic and essential commodities.

The British Chamber also endorsed the extension of lowered tariffs on pork and other agricultural commodities until 2028, which has been supported for two consecutive years.

BCCP executive director and trustee Chris Nelson acknowledged the current ban on live cattle and its by-products from the UK. He expressed optimism that the ban would be lifted soon, citing collaborative efforts between the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) and the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

"It doesn't affect pork and we anticipate they will continue to grow strongly. Regarding the beef, that is obviously a disappointment. My understanding is it's one isolated case in Scotland, it's a temporary ban. I know that the UK government and DEFRA, our agricultural section, have worked very hard to lift that ban and they will continue to work with the Department of Agriculture," Nelson stated.

He further noted, "If I look and be much more focused in terms of pork, we anticipate it will continue to grow. It's already the second largest UK pork export market, the Philippines, after China. We are very pleased that the lowered tariffs have been extended until 2028. The Agricultural Horticultural Development Board will be at WOFEX. And pork exports, along with other factors, will help in fighting inflation."

The British Chamber is also optimistic about the swift passage of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, which has been approved by both Houses and is now awaiting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s signature. President Marcos has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing productivity and modernizing the agricultural sector as a significant driver of economic growth.

-      The Philippine Star