British Chamber welcomes drafting of IRR for expanded pork import quota

Following the signing of the Executive Order No. 116, s. 2026, which increases the minimum access volume (MAV) for pork meat under Republic Act No. 8178 or the Agricultural Tariffication Act from 54,210 metric tons to 204,210 metric tons, the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) welcomes the drafting of its implementing rules and regulations (IRR) led by the Department of Agriculture (DA). 

BCCP Executive Vice Chairman Chris Nelson reiterated that the order is ‘timely and relevant’ given its consistent support since 2023 and noted how it would assist with the impacts of the war in the Middle East, and the country’s rising population.

He noted that, “We have been arguing for an increase in the MAV since 2023. The current minimum access volume was set in 1996, when the Philippines had a population of about 72 million.

Today, it’s around 118 million. As your economic report highlighted, inflation has increased, partly driven by meat prices, along with fuel costs, which impacts overall economic growth. Increasing the MAV is necessary to boost supply, especially at this moment, as reflected in the executive order.”

In its official statement, the Chamber also welcomed further discussions regarding the allocations to ensure fair distribution towards key stakeholders to “further strengthen the resilience and sustainability of the Philippine agricultural supply chain.”

Under the executive order, it outlines the allocation of 30,000 MT for processors and 120,000 MT for the Food Terminal Inc. or the Kadiwa ng Pangulo Program.

The Chamber also welcomed the recent statement by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., which stated that, "The IRR will seek a careful balance between protecting consumers from high prices, safeguarding the viability of local hog producers, and honoring the country's international trade commitments."

Nelson expressed support for the drafting of IRR as he pointed out that the market interest remained strong, signaling a potential to reinforce long-term partnerships among British exporters, their Philippine counterparts, distributors, and stakeholders within the hotel, restaurant and catering industry. 

Nelson further noted that meat, particularly pork, has been one of the key drivers of the UK-Philippine trade, marking a strong potential for the agricultural sector.

It has worked with the UK Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board since 2021, marking a significant growth in British pork exports.

More recently, data showed that from January-March 2026, volume is up to 5,310 tonnes with 13.3% on year increase, valued at £6.786 million, which is up to 10.6%.