Hog Importers Supported Amid Pork Meat Shortage in PH

As the African Swine Flu (ASF) continue to damage the hog population and supply in the country, the national government will fully support importers to augment the pork meat deficit.

According to Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, they are expecting a 400,000 metric ton shortage this year 2021. However, affected local hog raisers will be aided by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The DA also planned to increase the minimum access volume (MAV) to 388,790 metric ton from 54,000 metric ton.

This plan comes as ASF continues to sweep across the country, with only a number of regions, which includes the Central Visayas Region being spared from the virus.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Association for Meat Processors Inc. showed their full support on the government’s decision to approve more pork importation. They also reminded hog raisers affected by the ASF to make a loan on government agencies to keep their businesses going despite tough times. (MLC)