The Philippines: DoF backs move to import more pork until end-2022

• FINANCE SECRETARY Carlos G. Dominguez III said he is backing a proposal to extend the validity of an executive order that will increase pork import volumes until end-2022.
• The government, through Executive Order (EO) 133 in May 21, raised the minimum access volume (MAV) for pork imports to 254,210 metric tons (MT) this year from the previous 54,210 MT to address the spike in pork prices.
• However, Mr. Dominguez said he is “not entirely” satisfied with the implementation of such measures.
• “I understand there were regulations imposed by the Department of Agriculture limiting the access of imported pork to certain markets,” Mr. Dominguez said in a Viber message to reporters.
• The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) earlier said it was considering extending the EO 133 until end of 2022, amid low utilization of the MAV and continued high pork prices.
• Asked if he supports the NEDA’s proposal, Mr. Dominguez replied: “Yes, I am.”
• According to the Customs data, the government lost PHP3.67bn in foregone revenues from pork imports from 9 Apr 21 to 10 Dec 21.
• This as the government implemented EO 128 and 134, which reduced the tariff rates on pork imports covered by the MAV, since Apr 21. EO 134 will expire in May 22.

External Link : https://www.bworldonline.com/dof-backs-move-to-import-more-pork-until-end-2022/