Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) has confirmed the extension of the moratorium on sugar imports until the end of the harvest season. The decision was made to ensure stable and strong domestic raw sugar production while prioritizing local consumption.

According to Philippines News Agency, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that the DA, through the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), will meticulously monitor domestic output to maintain an accurate account of refined sugar stocks. Tiu Laurel emphasized the importance of monitoring local sugar refinery production and instructed SRA Administrator Pablo Azcona to provide regular updates on the status of standard and premium grade refined stocks.

The initial announcement of the import ban was made by Tiu Laurel on October 15, with an indication of its possible extension through the end of the milling season in December. In parallel, the DA and SRA are preparing rules for the importation of molasses, aiming to protect local producers by prioritizing local supply before considering imports.

Azcona explained that users of molasses would be required to purchase and withdraw domestic molasses before being allowed to import, following a predetermined ratio approved by the SRA. This regulatory framework is designed to ensure local producers are prioritized.

Furthermore, the DA announced a buying program for raw sugar to establish a 90-day buffer stock. Tiu Laurel noted that implementing a buying program has historically led to price recovery, with the SRA being prepared to move forward with this initiative. The new program aims to stabilize prices and support farmers, with plans to procure up to 400,000 metric tons of raw sugar. This stock will also support a 100,000 metric ton allocation of raw sugar export quota to the United States.