European poultry eyes long-term supply role in Philippine market

European poultry producers are positioning the European Union as a long-term, stable supplier for the Philippine market, citing strict food safety standards, large-scale production capacity, and growing export volumes to meet rising demand for animal protein in the country.

The initiative is part of the EU co-financed information and promotion campaign “European poultry – from our farms to your tables,” which aims to familiarize Filipino consumers and importers with European poultry production standards, including food safety, animal welfare, and sustainability.

Dariusz Goszczyński, president of the Management Board of the National Poultry Council–Chamber of Commerce (KRD-IG) in Poland, said European poultry exports to the Philippines have steadily increased in recent years, reflecting growing acceptance among local consumers and importers.

Poland alone shipped 26,000 tons of poultry meat to the Philippines last year, with exports already reaching 29,000 tons as of August this year. Goszczyński noted that Asia is projected to record the highest growth in protein demand in the coming decades, a trend European producers are prepared to support through modern facilities, advanced technology, and rigorous veterinary oversight.

European poultry production follows a “field-to-table” inspection system, which subjects all stages of production—from breeding and transport to processing and distribution—to continuous veterinary supervision. This model allows full traceability of products, a factor European exporters say is critical for food safety-sensitive markets such as the Philippines.

Beyond mandatory regulations, many European producers also adopt voluntary quality assurance systems that exceed legal requirements, reinforcing confidence among importers and institutional buyers.

Sustainability and animal welfare were also highlighted as key strengths of European poultry production. Producers across Europe are investing in energy-efficient technologies, including LED lighting, heat recovery systems, photovoltaic installations, and biogas facilities, to reduce environmental impact. Improved feed efficiency has also contributed to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

European farms operate under some of the world’s most extensive animal welfare regulations, with monitoring systems in place to track poultry health and living conditions. Many producers voluntarily implement standards beyond regulatory minimums, aligning production practices with growing global demand for responsibly sourced food.

Industry representatives said European poultry’s nutritional value and versatility make it suitable for both household cooking and the Philippine hospitality sector. Its mild flavor and adaptability allow it to be used in traditional Filipino dishes as well as international and modern cuisine.

The campaign also underscores the importance of long-term business relationships and transparency in trade. European exporters said consistent quality, predictable supply, and open communication with Philippine partners remain central to sustaining cooperation in the market.