MANILA, Philippines — An agricultural advocacy group expressed optimism that the imposition by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) of a price-based special safeguard duty (SSG) on agricultural products will be beneficial to the local poultry industry.
Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) President Edicio dela Torre said on Wednesday that aside from helping the poultry industry, the special safeguard duty will keep chicken prices affordable for consumers.
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“Strengthening and increasing safeguard duties imposed on chicken give immediate temporary relief to the local broiler sector, without adversely affecting chicken retail price,” dela Torre said.
The BOC in April issued Memorandum Circular No. 72-2024 which imposes priced-based SSG on eligible agricultural products, including prepared and preserved meat, chicken, grains, and coffee.
Dela Torre likewise calls for a whole-of-nation approach to ensure that the country’s agricultural sector remains sustainable.“We should aim for a win-win solution that increases government revenue and at the same time sustains local livelihood,” dela Torre said.