The UK is set to boost its agricultural exports to the Philippines following successful trade talks aimed at lifting long-standing bans on beef and poultry. This development, finalized during the inaugural Joint Economic Trade Committee (JETCO) held on Monday, March 17, 2025, promises to significantly benefit both economies.
Following negotiations, which took place in London, the UK government announced the lifting of restrictions on the export of UK beef and poultry worth approximately £80 million over the next five years. These changes occur as the Philippines continues to emerge as one of Asia's fastest-growing economies and stands as the UK’s fourth-largest export market for pork, trailing only behind the EU, China, and the US.
The lifting of the poultry export ban was formalized by the Philippine Department of Agriculture back in September 2024, described at the time as a “pivotal moment” for trade relations. Prior to the ban's reversal, the UK had been the sixth-largest source of poultry imports to the Philippines, exporting about 6,000 tons of poultry meat annually between 2018 and 2023, with exports valued at just over £300,000 last year.
Alongside poultry, the ban on beef imports has also been lifted, much to the delight of stakeholders within the UK beef industry. Ministers involved, including Douglas Alexander MP, the Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security, expressed optimism about the renewed access to these markets. Alexander noted, "The lifting of bans on UK poultry and beef exports is great news for our world-class agricultural industry, which can once again sell these products to the Philippines, which has a population of 112 million." This statement encapsulates the broader enthusiasm for what could be substantial economic growth stemming from renewed trade.
United Kingdom and Philippine officials are not only focused on the agricultural sector but are also exploring partnerships across multiple sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology. During the meeting, both parties agreed to pursue closer cooperation on existing infrastructure projects and discussed new opportunities for investment, which could bolster the UK’s agricultural exports even more.
Particularly noteworthy is the intention to establish a government-to-government Financing Framework Partnership. This initiative aims to facilitate up to £5 billion of potential financing from UK Export Finance, which would support sustainable public infrastructure projects and improve market access to UK expertise and technological advancements.
The International Meat Trade Association (IMTA) has also welcomed these developments, emphasizing the importance of the trade relationship between the UK and the Philippines. IMTA remarked, "We were delighted last year the Philippines lifted the ban on UK poultry meat, as well as lifting the temporary ban on UK beef. We hope the trade partnership between our countries can continue to grow from strength to strength." This sentiment reflects optimism about future trade dynamics.
With existing relationships showing potential for growth, UK agricultural companies are likely to capitalize on new investment opportunities, reinforcing the commitment of both countries to strengthen their economic ties. The potential revival of beef and poultry exports could serve as a catalyst for increased trade value, which already stands at £2.8 billion annually between the two nations.
Trade officials from both countries recognize the significance of the current climate, and efforts to maintain momentum will likely focus on ensuring the sustainability of this relationship. By encompassing areas such as animal disease detection and antimicrobial resistance, the discussions are also addressing modern challenges facing the agricultural industry today, including the protection of food safety and market stability.
Minister Douglas Alexander and Undersecretary Allan B Gepty’s joint commitment to advance these discussions will hopefully pave the way for expanded collaboration and long-lasting partnerships between the UK and the Philippines.
Overall, these developments could present substantial benefits for both nations. The lifting of trade barriers is not only advantageous for the UK’s agricultural sector but also opens new avenues for Philippine consumers and businesses, enhancing the bilateral relationship for years to come.
