CONSUMER should brace for higher pork prices as the “ber” months approach, driven by increased seasonal demand and lower production following the rainy season, according to the Pork Producers Federation of the Philippines.
The group anticipates that the average farm-gate price of local pork, currently at P190 per kilo, could rise to P230 per kilo, potentially pushing retail prices to around P350 per kilo. “‘Ber’ months na, of course, tataas na ulit ang mamimili ng local [pork] so expected na tataas na rin ang farm-gate price,” said Eric Harina, the federation’s president.
Harina also pointed out that despite the relatively low farm-gate prices, retail prices remain elevated, ranging from P330 to P380 per kilo. He attributed this to “weak production” caused by the ongoing African Swine Fever (ASF) problem, as the industry awaits the availability of an effective ASF vaccine. The rainy months of July and August further exacerbated the situation, as pigs are more susceptible to illness during this period.
Local swine farmers also face stiff competition from cheaper imported pork, which ranges from P240 to P300 per kilo. Harina suggested streamlining the supply chain by removing the middleman system and facilitating a more efficient farm-to-market or retailer system to alleviate the burden on local producers and potentially stabilize prices for consumers.
