Agriculture
American cheese push gains speed in the Philippines
The USA Cheese Guild is expanding its training and engagement programs in the Philippines as the country emerges as one of the fastest-growing markets for American agricultural products. The initiative aims to deepen local expertise and broaden appreciation for USA Cheeses among chefs, retailers, and consumers.
NFA scores major win in rice auction, frees up storage for new harvest
The National Food Authority (NFA) finally succeeded in auctioning off nearly 16,000 metric tons of aging rice on December 5, clearing much-needed space in its warehouses after months of unsuccessful attempts.
Taiwan pork imports under temporary ban
The Philippines has temporarily banned the import of live pigs, pork, pig skin, and other pork products from Taiwan after an African swine fever (ASF) outbreak was confirmed there.
DA forms watchdog overseeing infra push
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday announced creating a watchdog unit to ensure strict oversight of its growing infrastructure program, including farm-to-market roads (FMRs), which will return to the DA’s control from the Department of Public Works and Highways next year.
Importers oppose planned pork quota reset
The Meat Importers and Traders Association (MITA) has asked the Department of Agriculture (DA) to reconsider planned changes to the minimum access volume (MAV) rules for pork imports, warning that the proposal is creating “substantial uncertainty” for traders.
