The Philippines is ready to face any case that may be filed by Brazil before the World Trade Organization (WTO) concerning its import ban on poultry imports from the South American country.
Presidential spokesman Harry Roque has voiced confidence in the country's capability to deal with the latest trade issue before the world trade body.
"'Yung kanilang banta sa WTO, bring it on (On the threat to file a case before the WTO, bring it on). We have proven competence pagdating sa WTO litigations (when it comes to WTO litigations," Roque said during a Palace press briefing Monday.
In mid-August, the Philippines imposed a temporary ban on poultry meat coming from Brazil after Chinese authorities detected supposed coronavirus contamination of frozen meat exported by Brazil. The chicken imports supposedly originated from a plant owned by Aurora, the third largest poultry and pork exporter of Brazil.
Brazil is reportedly mulling over the possibility of raising its trade concerns before the WTO following the Philippines' import ban on its poultry products. A letter from the Embassy of Brazil was sent to the Department of Foreign Affairs about its plan to elevate the issue at the WTO.
Agriculture Secretary William Dar however has announced that the ban on Brazilian poultry imports has not yet been lifted. He said Brazil has yet to provide the Philippines a report on the COVID-19 infection in their foreign meat establishments where Philippine imports are sourced.