The UK has regained access to the Philippine market for beef and poultry exports following fruitful trade negotiations between the two countries. The deal, valued at £80 million over the next five years, was finalized during the inaugural UK-Philippines Joint Economic Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting in London on March 17, 2025.
The Philippines, recognized as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies, currently stands as the UK’s fourth-largest pork export market. The broader UK-Philippines trade relationship boasts a significant value of £2.8 billion annually, with JETCO aiming to explore and expand trade opportunities in various sectors including agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology.
Prior to the recent lifting of import restrictions, the UK had ranked as the sixth-largest poultry supplier to the Philippines. The ban on UK poultry was formally lifted in September 2024, paving the way for UK meat exporters. Additionally, a separate temporary ban on UK beef imports has also been lifted, now allowing British beef to reenter the Philippine market.
Douglas Alexander, Labour minister for trade policy and economic security, stated, "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 sentiment encapsulates the excitement shared by both governments as the deal opens significant trade avenues.
The initial restrictions on UK poultry and beef were enacted due to cases of mad cow disease and bird flu detected in Britain. The UK, with a robust agricultural infrastructure, is now regaining its footing in a market eager for its quality meat products. Scottish borders will soon be flooded with shipments heading to Manila, as industry leaders anticipate a revitalized trade landscape.
Before the ban, the UK exported approximately 6,000 tons of poultry meat and products to the Philippines each year from 2018 to 2023. Excited about this resurgence, the International Meat Trade Association (IMTA) noted, "We were delighted that last year the Philippines lifted the ban on UK poultrymeat, as well as lifting the temporary ban on UK beef. This renewal is vital for keeping trade flowing. The Philippines is a key market for UK meat exports, with a variety of products setting sail for Manila.”
The JETCO talks saw crucial discussions between UK minister Alexander and Philippine Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Allan B Gepty. These discussions are expected to deepen bilateral relations and address various issues, including animal disease detection and antimicrobial resistance. The advancements could unlock new opportunities in areas like precision breeding and genetics.
This enhanced trade relationship is supported by both governments committing to a Financing Framework Partnership, which aims to unlock up to £5 billion in UK Export Finance. This fund is set to support the Philippines in various infrastructure projects and facilitate UK expertise in crucial sectors, essentially investing in the economic growth and stability of the nation.
The UK meat sector has welcomed the lifting of trade barriers as not just a restoration of opportunities, but a sign of long-term potential between the two nations. With increasing trade flows, the UK remains optimistic about continuing to expand its reach in the Southeast Asian market.
In conclusion, the recent lifting of bans and the subsequent discussions at the JETCO meeting signify a pivotal moment for UK-Philippines trade relations. Both nations are keen to grow their partnership and explore new avenues for collaboration, bringing hope for increased trade in agriculture, infrastructure, and beyond.
