Belgian pork exporters are positioning the Philippines as a key market in Southeast Asia to capitalize on the country’s need for safe, traceable and premium pork as it manages African Swine Fever (ASF) and tightens standards on imported meat products.
Belgium, which ranks among the world’s top 10 pork exporters, shipped 690,628 tons of pork to more than 70 countries in 2024, including the Philippines.
Industry officials said the rising demand in the Philippine market strongly aligns with Belgium’s strengths in efficiency, transparency and certified food safety.
Philippine importers stand to benefit from Belgium’s customized approach to global buyers, according to Joris Coenen, manager of the Belgian Meat Office (BMO).
Coenen said Belgian suppliers are known for adapting to the requirements of each market and building long-term partnerships based on reliable delivery and consistent quality.
“Belgian meat suppliers offer a tailored service worldwide. They develop strong, sustainable collaborations and provide flexible and efficient solutions aligned with the customer’s business,” Coenen said.
Gerard Van Landschoot, president of FEBEV, cited the industry’s ability to innovate amid competitive pressures.
“Our greatest strength has always been flexibility. Reinventing ourselves, anticipating change, staying ahead of the curve—this is our history, past and future,” he said.
Exporters also highlighted their full compliance with European Union regulations, an assurance for buyers in markets with heightened food safety scrutiny.
