Manila:The Department of Agriculture (DA) has commenced a preliminary safeguard investigation into pork imports to assess whether the increase in foreign shipments is adversely affecting the domestic hog industry.

According to Philippines News Agency, the investigation will examine fresh, chilled, and frozen pork, as well as offals and fats imported from 2021 to August 2026. Initial assessments have indicated a decline in farmgate prices and producer income, a decrease in market share and self-sufficiency, an increase in import penetration, and growing commercial inventories. These findings may support the need for safeguards; however, the investigation aims to determine if increased imports are significantly contributing to the reported industry harm.

The DA clarified that initiating the investigation does not imply a final decision that foreign shipments are the cause of the issues, nor does it automatically lead to additional duties or restrictions. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has requested assistance from Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro to circulate the investigation notice and relevant documents to foreign diplomatic missions. In a letter dated October 19, Tiu Laurel mentioned 'prima facie evidence' justifying the probe.

The European Union (EU) has been identified as a key stakeholder in the proceedings and has been formally notified through the EU Delegation in Manila. DA data revealed that the EU accounted for approximately 47 percent of the pork imports under investigation from 2021 to 2025, with Brazil, Spain, Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States being other major suppliers.