The UK has regained access to the Philippine market for beef and poultry exports following trade negotiations between the two countries. The deal, valued at £80 million over five years, was finalised during the inaugural UK-Philippines Joint Economic Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting in London on 17 March.
The Philippines, one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies, is the UK’s fourth-largest pork export market. The broader UK-Philippines trade relationship is worth £2.8 billion annually, and JETCO aims to expand trade opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology.
Before import restrictions were imposed, the UK was previously the sixth-largest poultry supplier to the Philippines. The lifting of the poultry ban was formalised in September 2024, while a separate temporary ban on UK beef imports has also been removed.
Both governments also committed to advancing a government-to-government Financing Framework Partnership, unlocking up to £5 billion in UK Export Finance to support Philippine infrastructure projects and facilitate UK expertise in key sectors.
Industry bodies, including the International Meat Trade Association, welcomed the decision, stating it strengthens long-term trade prospects between the two nations.