Philippines to tighten pork import controls as corn quota rises

MANILA — The Department of Agriculture is pursuing stricter rules on pork imports as part of efforts to lower production costs for local livestock producers and protect domestic hog farmers facing declining farm-gate prices, officials said.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the department was considering higher tariffs on imported pork as the government simultaneously approved an increase in the corn import quota. The dual approach reflects efforts to balance support for the domestic hog industry amid rising feed costs and market pressures.

Local hog raisers have faced mounting challenges as feed costs remain elevated while prices for their products have weakened. Officials view the expanded corn import quota as a measure to help reduce production expenses, though the government also aims to protect the domestic pork industry from cheaper imported meat.

The move comes as Philippine agricultural policymakers continue grappling with the need to support farmer incomes while managing consumer prices and industry competitiveness. Further details on the proposed tariff increases and implementation timeline were not immediately disclosed.