September 13, 2024
UK pork exports to the Philippines gain support amid El Nino and ASF challenges
The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing UK pork imports into the Philippines as a response to ongoing challenges in food supply caused by the El Nino phenomenon and the African swine fever (ASF), The Philippine Star reported.
BCCP executive director and trustee Chris Nelson highlighted the importance of this partnership in a recent interview. He stated, "There are areas of opportunity we have done particularly well and continue to do, with the growth of UK pork exports to the Philippines driven by mutual interest. There is a need here for food supply, food security, and to fight against inflation. The UK is known to be a quality supplier of pork and other products. I am pleased to say that chicken will also be available as there are no restrictions between the two countries."
One of the BCCP's key objectives is to strengthen long-term partnerships between UK exporters and their Philippine counterparts in the agricultural sector. On July 30, 2024, the BCCP hosted the Philippine-British Meat Trade Briefing & Reception in collaboration with the UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). The event underscored the Philippines' continued importance as a key partner in UK pork and beef trade. The Philippines ranks as the second-largest pork export market for the UK in Asia, after China.
A report from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) revealed a 9.6% increase in meat imports in the first quarter of 2024, totalling 647.75 million kg. The rise in imports is attributed to the impact of El Nino and the ongoing ASF outbreak, which continues to affect the local sector. As of August 21, 2024, ASF remains active in 15 regions, 32 provinces, 115 municipalities, and 458 barangays.
The extension of lowered tariff rates until 2028, under Executive Order No 62, has been instrumental in attracting meat importers. The British Chamber has consistently promoted this alongside the passage of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, now awaiting the President's signature, aimed at addressing inflation and protecting local consumers and farmers.
To reinforce the growing meat trade relations between the UK and the Philippines, AHDB's Head of International Trade Development, Jonathan Eckley, commented, "We look forward to continuing working collaboratively with industry and government to develop these important business relationships and build on the UK pork sector's positive momentum in the Philippines."
- The Philippine Star
