October 9, 2006

Philippine poultry owners protest against imports

Poultry raisers in the Philippines' northern Mindanao region are objecting to the planned importation of chicken products, warning the entry of foreign poultry goods in the domestic market would spell heavy losses for local farmers.

The planned importation was prompted by an expected shortage of poultry products brought about by the typhoon "Milenyo" that hit Manila and Luzon, said Department of Agriculture Regional Director Joel Rudinas.

Rudinas told the Sun Star that importation was requested from huge commercial companies, known as poultry integrators, who are expecting an upsurge of market demand in the coming Christmas season.

Northern Mindanao Poultry Association president Roger Navarro said that the association is strongly opposing the government¡¯s move as it would result in income losses for local poultry farmers.

He said the influx of cheap foreign poultry products would hurt local farmers, and was unnecessary because they can meet the projected shortfall.

Navarro, during a meeting with Rudinas, is requesting the government to verify the reported shortage and if confirmed, the government should help the local poultry industry to cope up with the existing demands.

To meet the reported shortage, Navarro said local producers could shorten the production process and utilize idle production units to increase its capacities.

Rudinas supported these proposals, but said producers should ensure adequate levels of supply, especially during Christmas season wherein demands for poultry products expectedly go up.

Navarro said there was no problem with Mindanao poultry industry, which he said is even supplying the Visayas and Luzon markets.