Philippines’ beef imports increased by 50% in January

According to data from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), in January the Philippines imported 138,000 tons of meat, 48,000 tons more than in January 2024.

Local pork production remains insufficient, which creates the need for imports, according to the Meat Importers and Traders Association (MITA). As a result, pork imports grew by 65%, reaching 70,449 tons.

Demand for chicken meat is rising due to its lower price. “Unless the pork industry returns to its previous production level at competitive prices, imports will continue to grow,” said MITA’s Chairman Emeritus, Jesús Cham.

Chicken meat imports climbed by 48% year-on-year, from 30,794 tons to 45,631 tons. Meanwhile, beef imports rose by 50%, reaching 19,895 tons, according to BAI data.