DA eyes shifting meat imports from Brazil to US to reduce tariffs

Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel expressed openness to shifting agricultural imports from other countries, particularly Brazil, to the United States as part of efforts to reduce reciprocal tariffs.

A delegation of Philippine trade and economic officials is in Washington, DC this week to discuss concerns such as the 17-percent tariff imposed on Philippine goods.

Laurel noted that importing more meat products from the US could be a practical move given its status as one of the Philippines' leading trade partners.

In 2024, the US was the second-largest meat supplier to the Philippines with 220,132 metric tons, behind Brazil's 536,340 metric tons.

Laurel emphasized that this shift would not increase overall imports but rather adjust preferences and could benefit local industries if tariffs are reduced.

Philippine goods were initially assigned a 17% tariff by the US, second lowest in Southeast Asia next to Singapore's 10% baseline rate. The reciprocal tariffs have since been suspended for 90 days with most US trading partners paying 10%.

The overall goal is to secure improved access for Philippine exports, particularly agricultural products including coconuts, tilapia, and white shrimp.