Meat processors have asked for an extension of the most-favored nation (MFN) rate of 5 percent tariff on imported mechanically-deboned meat (MDM) to avert possible upward movements on prices of processed and canned meat products.
According to a notice published by the Tariff Commission (TC), the agency is set to conduct an investigation to determine if there is basis for the continuation of the MFN rates on imported chicken and turkey mdm.
The MFN rate is set to expire on December 31, 2022, following a previous extension from Malacañang through EO 123 signed by then President Rodrigo Duterte on January 15, 2021.
EO 123 reimposed the previous MFN rate of 5 percent when EO 83 expired in December 31, 2020.
If the TC finds no firm basis to allow a third extension of the MFN rate, the tariff on imported MDM will revert back to 40 percent.
Philippine Association of Meat Processors Inc. spokesperson Rex Aggarado said the group is poised to discuss the merits of the petition during the general membership meeting on September 8, 2022.