The Philippines has reopened pork imports from Spain after a science-based review of African Swine Fever (ASF) controls. The move follows a temporary suspension in late 2025 and reflects the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) effort to balance food security with disease safeguards.
Trade resumes under strict conditions
The DA lifted its suspension on Spanish pork and swine products after recognizing Spain’s ASF regionalization measures. Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr signed Department Circular No. 22, reinstating trade under sanitary conditions agreed between Manila and Madrid.
The ban, imposed in December 2025, halted shipments of live hogs, pork meat, skin, and semen. It followed ASF detections among wild pigs in Barcelona, reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health. Spain was the Philippines’ second-largest pork supplier, shipping 132,000 tons from January to September 2025. This accounted for 11.1% of total imports.
Safeguards and veterinary cooperation
The Bureau of Animal Industry confirmed Spain’s veterinary authorities enforce strong ASF controls. Imports must originate only from low-risk zones and comply with bilateral protocols.
DA Administrative Circular No. 12 (2025) established the framework for recognizing ASF regionalization, allowing trade from disease-free areas rather than imposing blanket bans. This approach mirrors agreements with Brazil, Poland, and Russia for poultry and meat products.
Balancing food security with science
Mr Laurel emphasized that science-based risk assessment underpins the reopening. Regionalization enables countries to isolate outbreaks while maintaining trade flows.
Analysts expect Spanish pork imports to stabilize supply and moderate retail prices, supporting recovery in the domestic hog industry. Spain’s reentry strengthens diversification of sources, reducing reliance on single suppliers.
Recovery prospects for the swine sector
The DA said the order takes immediate effect and remains valid unless revoked. Industry stakeholders stress that coordination between regulators and producers is vital to sustain recovery from ASF disruptions.
By reopening Spanish pork trade, the Philippines signals confidence in veterinary oversight while reinforcing its commitment to food security and international cooperation.