By Stephanie Sevillano | Philippine News Agency
On Monday, the Department of Agriculture (D.A.) lifted an import ban it imposed six years ago on heat-treated processed pork products from South Korea due to the spread of African swine fever (ASF).
Based on D.A. Memorandum Order No. 23 issued by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the entry of the Korean pork products will be allowed, provided it has undergone a process of “high-level” heat treatment.
This covers products under FO treatment, which refers to the equivalent minutes of sterilization at 121.1 degrees Celsius, value of 3, or heating at a minimum of 70 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes.
“With this policy shift, more pork products are anticipated to be available to consumers in the Philippines. It may also indicate a potential thaw in agri-trade relations between the two countries,” the D.A. said in a statement.
On April 8, the Import Risk Analysis (IRA) showed that sterilized pork products from South Korea intended for export are deemed “safe commodities” as these meet World Organization for Animal Health standards.
“The IRA highlighted South Korea’s robust veterinary oversight and ASF control systems, and noted the shelf-stability and secured packaging of the imported products. With these assurances, sterilized pork products from South Korea are permitted for import in accordance with existing Philippine regulations,” the D.A. added.
In 2019, the D.A. imposed an import restriction on the said commodity from South Korea under D.A. Memorandum Order No. 26 to prevent the spread of ASF in the country.
As of April 25, barangays with active cases of ASF declined to 47 in 23 cities and municipalities from 54 barangays in 28 cities and municipalities on April 11. (PNA)
