By Victoria “NIKE” De Dios
Even before the Russian unprovoked invasion on Ukraine, the issue of food security was the main concern during the COVID-19 pandemic which made the whole world stop.
Two years after, the world was already ready to deal with the post-pandemic journey, but Russia waged an unprovoked war against Ukraine which until now continues. There is no denying that the situation in Ukraine is unpredictable. But what is evident is the loss of income, disruption of the supply chain, and increasing prices of good and commodities, among others have truly affected both access to food and affordability of food. It is a global concern that continues to threaten the supply chain and food security.
This was what British Chamber of Commerce Philippines Executive Director and Trustee Chris Nelson explained in his TV interview, that there is a win-win solution for both countries as the increased growth of UK pork exports helps in the inflation of the Philippines, making it as an investment destination.
“At a time when you need food security and supply, the UK clearly stands as one of the key countries to assist you,” said Nelson to hosts Danie Laurel and Jester delos Santos.
Factors such as the African swine flu, there was a significant impact on the pig herds which decreased to an estimated 50 percent. However, Nelson cited that in terms of the local industry, the British Chamber can help “fill the gap and actually build long-term relations.”
“Bringing in meat products from overseas would help the Philippines on issues concerning food security and inflation, given the skyrocketing prices of food particularly in pork and beef. Obviously it is because there is a shortage of local supply in the Philippines due to the African swine fever and other issues,” the BCCP Executive Director explained.
“There has been continued support to extend the lower tariff rates not only to pork but also to other meat products such as chicken,” he added.
Last December 2, the British Chamber successfully held its second British Meat Trade Mission with over 10 local meat importers and distributor companies in the Philippines – which highlighted the relevant growth of UK pork exports of 41% and assistance with price inflation in the country.
