The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) is calling for reforms in the implementation of non-tariff measures (NTMs) in the livestock and poultry subsectors, warning that inefficiencies could drive up meat prices and constrain supply.
PCC said in a sector brief that NTMs—such as sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) rules, licensing, and labeling requirements—serve legitimate goals of ensuring food safety and quality. However, when hampered by institutional gaps and procedural bottlenecks, these measures can function as de facto trade barriers, raising costs for importers and limiting market access.
The Philippines remains among the world’s fastest-growing meat consumers, with demand projected to rise steadily in the coming years. Livestock and poultry already account for roughly a third of agricultural output, making stable supply and competitive pricing critical to food security.
PCC identified key flaws in implementation, including overlapping requirements, unclear guidelines, and approval delays. These issues increase compliance costs and disrupt import flows, particularly for pork, beef, and chicken—commodities vulnerable to supply shocks from outbreaks such as African swine fever and avian influenza.
The commission recommends a coordinated policy shift among regulators to ease price pressures. Proposed measures include streamlining procedures, harmonizing rules with international standards, and reducing duplication in permits and inspections.
Strengthening inter-agency coordination and embedding clearer NTM disciplines in trade agreements are also seen as crucial.
PCC said reforms to improve execution rather than removing safeguards can protect consumers while easing supply constraints, helping temper prices without compromising food safety.
