In a bid to deepen bilateral trade and seize new export opportunities, leading Argentine pork and poultry exporters met with Philippine importers today for a high-level business matchmaking session at the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).
The event marks a significant follow-up to the Philippines’ recent move to open its market to Argentine meat products—a policy shift expected to boost supply diversity for Filipino consumers while strengthening Argentina’s export footprint in Southeast Asia.
Speaking at the opening, Argentine Ambassador Ricardo Bocalandro said the two countries share goals of advancing food security and trade. He thanked the PCCI, the Philippine Association of Meat Processors Inc. (PAMPI), and the Meat Importers and Traders Association (MITA) for facilitating dialogue between stakeholders from both sides.
The ambassador said this event showcases the dynamic potential of both countries’ private sectors to work together in fulfilling growing demand while ensuring high sanitary standards.
PCCI President Consul Eunina Mangio called the partnership “strategic,” citing the importance of long-term collaboration in agriculture and livestock.
With the Philippines looking to stabilize meat supply and Argentina expanding its global trade links, the timing of the trade mission is seen as crucial. One-on-one meetings throughout the day provided Argentine exporters direct access to major Filipino buyers and distributors.
Argentina’s pork sector has seen rapid growth, supported by a clean bill of health from global veterinary authorities. The country produced 800,000 metric tons of pork in 2024 and expects a 5% rise in 2025, with targets to double output by 2032. It is currently free from Classical and African Swine Fever, a major selling point for Asian importers.
Meanwhile, the Argentine poultry industry—represented by CEPA—has expanded aggressively, reaching 64 global markets, including Vietnam, South Africa, and the UAE. National per capita production now stands at over 21 chickens annually, and the Philippines is expected to become a key new destination for Argentine poultry.
To celebrate the day’s success, the Argentine Embassy, together with Argentina’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Argentine Investment and International Trade Agency, hosted a luncheon at Enderun Colleges.
Over 150 guests, including government officials, diplomats, and business leaders, enjoyed a cultural showcase of Argentine cuisine, wine, and tango.
Dr. Christian Daquigan of the Bureau of Animal Industry and DA Undersecretary Dante Palabrica both reiterated the Philippine government’s commitment to mutually beneficial agricultural partnerships.
The day concluded with continued matchmaking sessions at PCCI headquarters, cementing what organizers hope will be a sustained and fruitful trade relationship.
