E-Malt.com News article: 3015

The Philippines imported 89,009 tonnes of malt valued at C$ 31 million at FOB value in 2002. This level of import makes the Philippines a significant target for malt exporters, according to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). Trade sources comment that neither barley nor malt extract is used as an ingredient by local brewers. Malt is imported only for consumption in the domestic market. 10 different countries exported malt to the Philippines in the period from 2000 to 2002. In 2002, the major exporters of malt were: Australia, with 60% share of the total import market. Australia has dominated the supply of malt to the Philippines for many years. Belgium, with 39% share of the total import market. Trade sources comment that it took over as the second largest supplier of malt from France in 1997 due to its competitive price. According to trade sources, the bulk of imported malt is distributed to San Miguel Corp. Trade sources comment that: About 90% of imported malt are used by the Philippines' largest brewery, San Miguel Corp. It is the market leader in the Philippines beer market. The balance of the imported malt is used by Asia Brewery Inc., which holds the balance of the beer market. According to trade sources, Australia and Belgium suppliers are able to closely meet the quality, specifications and price expectations of the local brewery companies. One source in San Miguel Corp. comment that Canada was one of its supply source but this stopped when Canada's malt was not price competitive.

28 July, 2004