The Department of Agriculture (DA) is looking into a possible increase of tariffs on imported pork and a 60-day suspension of imports, following an appeal from the hog raisers to protect the local products.

According to DA Asec, Arnel De Mesa, the agency asked the Tariff Commission to be raised to 30 to 40%.

“Nakapag-submit na ang DA ng request sa Tariff Commission ng 30 hanggang 40%,” he said

The DA also stated that they are also waiting for the results of a review on whether the excessive imports have really caused heavy losses for local hog raisers. Once proven, the government may implement the temporary suspension on pork imports.

“Nabanggit ng ating Secretary, by mid-November, posibleng part ng response, posibleng itigil ‘yong importasyon for about 60 days, para makatulong din sa ating mga magbababoy,” De Mesa said

The possible suspension may cover all pork imports except products needed by food processors. Among the imports that may be halted are pork belly and cutting meat.

The DA also assured that although there is no first border inspection to ensure the safety of meats entering the country, there is a second border inspection, where arriving meats are carefully examined before it leaves the warehouses.

Meanwhile, the pig holiday protest of hog raisers will continue until October 24, 2026.

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