Allowing the importation of processed animal proteins (PAP) used as fish feeds would ensure the stable supply of fish in the low-stock season from November to January, according to food security and livelihood advocacy group, Tugon Kabuhayan.
The Bureau of Animal Industry released the guidelines on the importation of PAP from countries affected with African swine fever (ASF).
Under BAI’s Memorandum Circular 34 series of 2022 signed by OIC director Reildrin Morales that was published yesterday, importation of PAP from ASF infected countries will only be allowed if the commodity will be used exclusively for aqua feeds by accredited manufacturers.
The issuance said only PAPs from byproducts of animals fit for human consumption under the European Union, World Organization for Animal Health and other internationally acceptable standards are allowed to enter the Philippines.
The guidelines said only establishments that passed the assessment conducted by technical experts showing safety of material use for rendering may export PAP to the Philippines apart from the need to secure an international veterinary certificate signed by competent authorities from origin countries.
BAI also has the right to conduct on-site audits of facilities that will import PAP for aqua feeds production. It can suspend or cancel authorization to import of a party confirmed to have violated the guideline in bringing in imported PAP.
Asis Perez, Tugon Kabuhayan convenor, said PAPs are vital ingredients in fish farming, especially after the devastating effects of Typhoon Paeng and the upcoming closed fishing season which will reduce sea-catch supply by about 15,000 metric tons monthly from November 2022 to January 2023.
“Aquaculture production for the December-to-February period was traditionally geared toward addressing that gap. It is of utmost importance that aquaculture production will not be further disrupted by a lack of raw materials,” Perez said.
The DA earlier banned the importation of pork and pork products, including PAPs from ASF-affected countries through Memorandum Order No. 6, Series of 2019 which affected the aquaculture industry’s production. – Jed Macapagal
