A group of hog raisers opposed the Department of Agriculture (DA) ‘s request to lower tariffs on imported pork.
The Pork Producers Federation of the Philippines said they were not consulted by the DA regarding the plan.
“Mas inuna pa niya ‘yung kapakanan ng importers at saka mga meat processors,” said Nicanor Briones, vice president of the group.
“Mas kailangan natin ‘yung perang makokolekta sa taripa para maitulong natin sa ating mga naghihirap na magbababoy at nang matigil ‘yung African swine fever na siyang pinagmumulan ng malaking problema sa kakulangan ng karneng baboy ngayon,” he added.
The Tariff Commission is now holding the DA’s petition to lower the tariff on imported pork for 1 year.
The tariff reduction is said to be aimed at remedying the shortage of pork due to African swine fever, by strengthening its importation within the country.
From 30 percent for an in-quota of 54,000 metric tons, the tariff will be made at 5 percent in the first half of the year, and 10 percent in the second half of the year.
From the 40 percent for the out-quota product, it is planned to increase the tariff to 15 percent and 20 percent for the first and second half of the year.
Agriculture Assistant Secretary Noel Reyes said they want to lower the pork price from P270 to P300 per kilo.
Group of hog raisers opposes lowering tariff of imported pork
“The outcome we wish to achieve is that imported frozen pork would be retailed at P270 to P300 per kilogram,” said Reyes.
Earlier, Sen. Francis “Kiko” expressed his worries when too many imported pigs arrive in the country.
“Nakikita natin kulang ang supply pero ayaw naman natin ding mangyari na tulad nu’ng pag-iimport ng bigas na sobra-sobra at naging malaking epekto rin sa ating mga rice farmers at naging malaking disincentive,” said Pangilinan.
The Philippine Association of Meat Processors Inc (PAMPI) wants to lend funds to pig farmers to import and temporarily allow the sale of imported frozen meat to market places without a freezer or refrigerator.
But the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) strongly warns that it is still necessary to follow the guidelines for safe eating of frozen meat.