The Philippine Department of Agriculture has lifted its temporary ban on imports of poultry products from Brazil and six US states (Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania).
The move is expected to help ease supply shortages and bring down the rising cost of chicken in the country.
The bans were lifted after the World Organization for Animal Health confirmed no new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza have been reported in Brazil since June 18, and in the listed US states since June 9.
Lower prices expected soon
DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said the return of Brazilian imports—one of the country’s primary sources of poultry—will be a “big help” in easing supply pressure. Since goods from Brazil arrive quickly, consumers may start to see lower chicken prices in just a few weeks.
As of July, the retail price of whole chicken in Metro Manila, the country’s biggest market, ranged between USD 3.90/kg and USD 4.40/kg, according to DA price monitoring.
Mr de Mesa explained that import bans often lead to limited supply and higher prices. Lifting the bans will increase available stock and help stabilize prices despite tight local supply.
He added that to further manage retail prices, the DA is also considering setting a maximum suggested retail price for chicken. This might be introduced by September 2025.
Science-based policy, food security focus
DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr stressed that the lifting of the bans was based on science and international standards. All imported products will still undergo strict veterinary inspections and follow food safety rules.
This policy highlights the DA’s commitment to responsible trade and safeguarding the local poultry industry vital to food security and the economy.
With inflation straining households, reopening poultry imports from Brazil and the US will help stabilize prices and secure affordable protein.