UK, Philippines agree to lift trade restrictions on beef, poultry exports
British meat exports have recorded a rise after trade discussions with the Philippines. The deal could generate US$102M over five years.
UK – Trade discussions between the United Kingdom and the Philippines have led to the removal of barriers that had previously restricted UK beef and poultry exports.
Officials from both countries met in London on March 17 for the first Joint Economic Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting, where they finalized an agreement to lift bans on these meat products.
The restored trade could be worth approximately US$102 million over the next five years.
The Philippines, a rapidly expanding economy in Asia, is already the UK’s fourth-largest market for pork exports.
With annual trade between the two countries valued at US$3.6 billion, JETCO aims to further strengthen economic ties and create new business opportunities.
UK ministers also encouraged investment in Philippine agriculture.
The Philippines’ Department of Agriculture officially approved the resumption of UK poultry exports in September 2024, calling it a significant milestone.
Before the restriction, Britain was the sixth-largest supplier of poultry to the Philippine market.
Similarly, the Philippine government has ended its temporary ban on UK beef imports, a move welcomed by industry leaders.
Beef exports had been restricted due to regulatory concerns, but the latest agreement reopens trade for British beef producers.
Further Cooperation in Trade and Investment
During the talks, UK Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security, Douglas Alexander, and Philippine Undersecretary for Trade and Industry, Allan B. Gepty, agreed to expand trade in various sectors, including infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture, and technology.
The two nations also discussed a potential government-to-government Financing Framework Partnership, which could unlock up to US$6.4 billion in funding from UK Export Finance.
This initiative aims to support sustainable infrastructure projects and increase the presence of British expertise and technology in the Philippines.
Alexander described the deal as a positive step for British agriculture, emphasizing that UK producers can now sell poultry and beef to a market of 112 million people.
The International Meat Trade Association welcomed the decision, stating that lifting the bans on British poultry and beef was an encouraging development.
It expressed optimism that the partnership between the UK and the Philippines would continue to strengthen.
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