The Philippines has resumed the importation of meat and livestock from Hungary after the Department of Agriculture (DA) revoked a temporary ban, following the restoration of Hungary’s foot-and-mouth disease (FMD)-free status by global animal health officials.
The reversal concludes a precautionary ban implemented when Hungary reported an FMD outbreak. With the restriction lifted, the importation of susceptible animals, meat products, and animal by-products can proceed under standard sanitary and veterinary regulations.
The World Organisation for Animal Health recently returned Hungary’s containment zone to its FMD-free list, verifying adherence to global protocols where vaccination is not used. The restriction had originally been mandated through DA Memorandum Order No. 16, Series of 2025.
Per Department Circular No. 34, inbound shipments will recommence 15 days after the directive is published on the DA’s official website and filed with the Office of the National Administrative Register.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. noted that the decision underscores a science-driven strategy aimed at protecting local livestock while ensuring a stable food supply.
“We remain uncompromising in protecting the country’s livestock industry from transboundary animal diseases, but we also recognize the importance of keeping reliable supply channels open once international standards confirm that risks have been effectively managed. This balanced approach strengthens food security and helps stabilize prices for Filipino consumers,” Tiu Laurel said.
The DA highlighted that reopening trade with Hungary aligns with its wider strategy to diversify agricultural import partners.
This initiative aims to mitigate vulnerabilities and build resilience against international disease outbreaks, climate changes, and volatile commodity markets.