Philippine govt pushes for reset of pork import policy

MITA warns of price and supply risks

MITA had urged the government to retain the existing MAV guidelines, warning that changes could raise the landed costs of imported meat and push retail prices higher. The group also warned that supply disruptions could affect pork availability in the coming year.

Under the MAV policy, pork imports within the quota enjoy a lower tariff rate (15%), shipments outside the quota face a 25% tariff. The current MAV for imported pork stands at 54,210 tons.

Push for market competitiveness

Mr Tiu Laurel said the current system allows longtime traders to accumulate allocations, giving them control over most imports and the market. Earlier this year, the DA found that 47 of the 130 quota holders accounted for 80% of the total MAV allocation, with 22 cornering 70% of the volume.

To restore competitiveness, Mr Tiu Laurel said the government is keen on a total reset of the system. Large traders will lose allocations, while smaller traders will be given equal opportunity. About 30% of the MAV, or 16,200 tons, will be contested by traders.

Under the new policy, 20% will be allocated to the Kadiwa program through state-run Food Terminal Inc (FTI), enabling government intervention when retail prices soar. Half of the MAV will be allocated to processors to stabilize the costs of processed meats.

MITA calls MAV insufficient

MITA countered that the current MAV is already inadequate for industry needs. The group urged the government to prioritize the MAV-plus scheme, which expands the volume eligible for lower tariffs. MITA suggested that processors could receive priority, with some imports distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mr Tiu Laurel previously asked the Office of the President to expand the quota by up to 150,000 tons. However, he said this is not a priority now, as current farm prices for live pigs do not justify the arrival of cheaper pork imports.