The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) identified potential competition issues arising from Fisheries Administrative Orders (FAO) No. 195-99 and No. 259-18, which regulate the importation of fresh, chilled and frozen fish and fishery products.
The PCC’s competition impact assessment (CIA) on fish importation regulations revealed during a strategic policy dialogue with the National Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (NFARMC) that strict import requirements for specific fish species could result in reduced supply, limited consumer choices and an uneven playing field that advantages institutional buyers.
Agriculture Undersecretary for fisheries and NFARMC chairperson Drusila Esther Bayate outlined ongoing efforts to improve fish importation regulations, such as a key update to FAO 195, which includes digital reporting to enhance regulatory efficiency and transparency.
The NFARMC said it is also exploring the potential for liberalizing current fish import policies.
The PCC and NFARMC agreed to deepen discussions on competition policy within the sector and to collaborate on future research aimed at furthering innovation, sustainability, and fair market practices.
The meeting followed a similar dialogue between the PCC and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) on July 10, 2024.
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