DA plans 150,000 MT pork import increase for Christmas

The Department of Agriculture (DA) plans to expand the minimum access volume (MAV) for pork imports by 150,000 metric tons ahead of the holiday season.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that government-subsidized Kadiwa stores will receive most of these imports to stabilize market prices and reduce costs during Christmas.

About 100,000 MT of pork will be allocated to Kadiwa stores, while 30,000 MT will go to meat processors to lower the price of canned goods; the remaining 20,000 MT will be distributed to the food service industry.

The move aims to give consumers access to more affordable pork through KNP centers and accredited sites as prices in local markets remain high.

Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto has discussed the proposal, which also received support from the Meat Importers and Traders Association for a higher import volume over three years.

Under current rules, if Congress does not act on this within 15 days, it is considered approved, with the proposed MAV Plus scheme set to be in effect throughout the year.