Philippines' Department of Agriculture Suspends Mackerel Import Permits
DA halts issuance of mackerel import permits

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The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines has halted the issuance of mackerel import permits to prevent misdeclaration and diversion of shipments to wet markets. Only imports for canning purposes will be allowed, with strict labeling requirements.
- 01The DA's suspension of mackerel import permits aims to prevent misdeclaration and diversion to wet markets.
- 02Only sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances will be issued for mackerel intended for canning.
- 03Imported mackerel must be labeled 'Imported for canning purposes only and not for distribution to wet markets.'
- 04Importers must submit annual VATable sales records for future import volume allocations.
- 05The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is responsible for issuing licenses to importers.
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The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines has suspended the issuance of import permits for mackerel to curb the misdeclaration and diversion of shipments to wet markets. This decision follows reports of importers mislabeling shipments. Under the new directive, the DA will only grant sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs) for mackerel intended for canning, with strict labeling requirements stating that the fish is 'Imported for canning purposes only and not for distribution to wet markets.' Violations of this directive will incur legal penalties. The initial allowable import volume for each licensed importer will depend on verified production volumes, with subsequent volumes based on VATable sales of canned products made from imported mackerel, plus an additional 10% buffer. Importers are required to submit annual VATable sales records to determine future import allocations. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is tasked with issuing licenses to importers before they can proceed with imports.
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The suspension of mackerel import permits aims to protect local markets and ensure food safety.
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