DA allocates most of MAV quota for pork imports to meat processors

The Department of Agriculture (DA) plans to allocate most of the 55,000 metric ton minimum access volume (MAV) quota for pork imports to meat processors and its attached agencies.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced that about 30,000 MT will be allocated to meat processors to stabilize market prices amid rising pork costs exceeding P400 per kilogram.

The DA will retain 15,000 MT for state-run corporations Food Terminal Inc. and Planters Products Inc., while the remaining 10,000 MT will be distributed equally among traders if necessary.

Philippine Association of Meat Processors Inc. director Jet Ambalada welcomed the allocation plan, stating it would contribute to maintaining stable prices in the market.

The surge in pork prices is attributed to lingering effects from African swine fever and potential profiteering by raisers and traders seeking to recover losses.