Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced an extension for the issuance of fish and seafood import permits, now set to continue until the end of June. This extension provides importers additional time to adhere to new guidelines aimed at mitigating food inflation and ensuring a stable supply for crucial industries.
According to Philippines News Agency, this decision is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to rationalize fish importation, thereby supporting the tourism and hospitality sectors, enhancing job creation, and attracting investment. The DA had authorized the importation of up to 25,000 metric tons of fish and seafood for the food service sector, though only about 25 percent of this volume has been received so far.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that the issue is more systemic than a result of low demand, citing tight original timelines and the seasonal availability of products in their countries of origin as contributing factors. The permitted imports include salmon, cod, tuna by-products, squid, scallops, octopus, and lobster, all of which are not available in sufficient quantities locally. Sardines are the only exception on the import list, approved to help counter inflation during the domestic off-season.
Only importers accredited under Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) 195 or registered under FAO 259 are eligible to apply for allocations under the Certificate of Necessity to Import (CNI). The DA anticipates that this policy adjustment will facilitate the full utilization of the approved import volume.
In parallel, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has initiated the annual closed fishing season in the Davao Gulf, starting June 3 and continuing through August. This measure aims to bolster long-term fish production and improve food security in the region. The seasonal ban restricts the catching of small pelagic fish species using bagnets, ringnets, and fine mesh nets, allowing key species such as various mackerels, roundscad, and bigeye scad to regenerate and rehabilitate.
