More beef imports expected next year

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is likely to import more beef next year amid rising demand and the lack of appropriate domestic production, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) said.

In its latest report, the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service said beef imports are expected to increase by 2.4 percent next year to 295,000 metric tons (MT) in carcass weight equivalent.

The increase would be driven by rising demand from households, food processors and the food service sector amid slow growth in domestic beef production.

The country’s total beef production is projected to decline to 174,000 MT in carcass weight equivalent in 2027. The production estimate is unchanged from the 174,000 MT in 2026 and a 2.8 percent decline from 179,000 MT last year.

The international agency noted that Indian beef is projected to further expand by 2027, increasing its market share and overtaking Australia’s share in the Philippine market.

“Major food industry companies engaged in corned beef manufacturing expect higher imports, with Indian carabeef a preferred option due to its price advantage,” the USDA said.

Despite the decline in market share, Australian beef products are still expected to increase in volume due to zero-tariff access for exports to the Philippines.

Similarly, Brazil is expected to remain a major supplier of beef cuts to the country, with export volume expected to increase further in 2027 as it remains price competitive.

Nearly 94 percent of imported beef products from Brazil are beef cuts, the USDA said, citing Bureau of Animal Industry data.

Countries such as Ireland, Mexico and Colombia are also set to expand the Philippines’ imported beef supply following the approval of systems and individual facility accreditations in 2026.

The USDA also estimates a 1.5 percent rise in beef consumption next year to 468,000 MT in carcass weight equivalent.

“Population and economic growth in the Philippines will continue to drive higher consumption of food products, including local and imported beef and processed meat products,” it added.

The international agency noted that corned beef remains a popular processed meat production in the country, amid consumer preference for convenient meal options.

Also driving demand is the country’s food service sector, driven by more frequent dining out and rising interests in cuisines and restaurants among middle and upper-income groups.