DA considers MAV Plus on corn, pork imports to stabilize prices amid energy crisis
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is considering the implementation of a Minimum Access Volume (MAV) Plus scheme for imported corn and pork as the country grapples with an ongoing energy emergency.
The move follows a directive from Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to reduce tariffs on key food commodities in a bid to keep prices stable despite rising global oil costs.
Under the MAV system, imported pork is subject to a 15 percent tariff—lower than the 25 percent rate outside the quota. For corn, tariffs are set at 5 percent for in-quota imports and 15 percent for those exceeding the quota.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency is currently consulting stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach that protects both consumers and local producers.
He explained that while corn and pork are being prioritized for the MAV Plus scheme, final import volumes will depend on what industry players consider acceptable. Additional imports will only be considered if supply gaps arise.
The corn sector has already expressed support for the proposal, while discussions with pork industry stakeholders are still ongoing.
Meanwhile, the DA said there are no immediate plans to impose MAV on chicken due to sufficient supply and stable prices. However, preparations for a possible MAV Plus arrangement for poultry are underway should the need arise.
If finalized, the MAV Plus scheme could be rolled out within three weeks.
The DA also reported strong local agricultural output, particularly for palay, with farmers earning between PHP18 and PHP27 per kilogram for clean and dry produce—well above production costs estimated at PHP14 to PHP15 per kilogram.
There have also been high yields for onions and various highland crops such as cabbage, tomatoes, and mangoes, although some areas are experiencing lower farmgate prices due to oversupply.
Despite these gains, Tiu Laurel emphasized the importance of sustained logistics support to help farmers cope with increasing transport costs and ensure efficient delivery of goods from farms to markets.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
