Govt Sees FMD-Free Stamp Boosting Pork Exports
31 May 2011PHILIPPINES - The Philippines expects a boost in its pork exports after the World Organization for Animal Health last week declared the country free of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said Monday.
On behalf of the Philippine government, Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Livestock Davinio Catbagan received the certification on Thursday from the 87-year-old animal health organization, which keeps its initial and historical name Office International des Epizooties (OIE).
“We are expecting that negotiations with Singapore and Malaysia will bring new business to our pork industry. I figure that livestock output will pick up again now that producers have found a reason to increase local production," Mr Alcala said.
Mr Catbagan added that the country’s FMD-free status will enhance productivity by allowing swine raisers and meat processors to freely transport and trade live animals, and livestock and pork products within the Philippines.
Source: GMA News
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