MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted its temporary ban on the importation of pork and other swine products from Spain after recognizing the European country’s regionalization measures for African Swine Fever (ASF), a move seen to help widen meat supply sources and ease pressure on domestic pork prices.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Department Circular No. 22, which formally recognizes Spain’s ASF regionalization system and allows the resumption of imports of pork meat, pig skin, and other swine by-products, subject to agreed sanitary conditions between Manila and Madrid.

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

Under the new policy, all import transactions from Spain must comply with bilateral import protocols, Philippine quarantine rules, and Administrative Circular No. 12, series of 2025, which lays down the framework for recognizing ASF regionalization among accredited trading partners.

The Bureau of Animal Industry said its assessment showed Spain has sufficient veterinary oversight and disease-control systems that significantly reduce the risk of ASF transmission through imported pork products. It added that Philippine and Spanish veterinary authorities have already agreed on technical conditions for shipments coming from certified low-risk zones.

Tiu Laurel said the move reflects a balanced approach between protecting local agriculture and ensuring food security.

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

He also noted that regionalization allows trading partners to confine disease restrictions to affected zones instead of imposing nationwide bans, consistent with international veterinary standards.

Industry analysts said the reopening of Spanish pork imports could help stabilize supply and moderate retail prices as the country continues to rebuild its hog population following ASF-related losses.

Spain is among the world’s largest pork exporters and has long been an accredited supplier to the Philippine market. The DA said the order takes effect immediately and will remain in force unless revoked or amended in writing.