PH lifts Spanish pork import ban

The Philippines, through the Department of Agriculture (DA), has lifted the ban on the importation of pork and other swine products from Spain.

In a statement on Friday, the DA said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued the Department Circular No. 22, effectively lifting the import restriction as the country formally recognizes Spain’s regionalization measures for African Swine Fever (ASF).

Regionalization allows countries to isolate disease outbreaks within specific zones rather than imposing blanket nationwide trade restrictions, in line with international veterinary standards.

The latest order allows the resumption of importation of pork meat, pig skin, and other swine by-products under agreed sanitary conditions between Manila and Madrid.

The DA said the Philippines imposed a temporary ban on Spanish pork imports last year through Department of Agriculture Memorandum Order No. 75 after ASF cases were reported in parts of Europe, prompting tighter border controls to protect the local hog industry.

Meanwhile, under the new directive, the Agriculture Department said all import transactions from Spain must comply with bilateral import protocols, Philippine quarantine regulations, and the guidelines under Administrative Circular No. 12 series of 2025, which established the framework for bilateral recognition of ASF regionalization among accredited trading partners.

Moreover, the Bureau of Animal Industry said its review concluded that Spain maintains sufficient veterinary oversight and disease-control measures to significantly reduce the risk of ASF transmission through imported pork products.

“We remain vigilant against ASF, but we also recognize the importance of science-based risk assessment and international cooperation in securing stable food supply chains,” said Tiu Laurel.

“Allowing imports from properly regulated and monitored areas in Spain helps diversify our pork sources while maintaining strict animal health standards,” added the Agriculture chief.

The DA said the order takes effect immediately and will remain in force unless revoked or amended in writing. — BAP, GMA News