DA: Yearend rice supply robust, to last 100 days despite La Niña

Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday projected a robust rice supply by yearend despite the effects of La Niña and other weather disturbances. Based on the DA's national rice supply outlook, the country will have 3.83 million metric tons (MT) of rice inventory. In a statement, DA Undersecretary for the National Rice Industry Development Program Christopher Morales said this is enough to cover a 100-day consumption. 'This projection incorporates updated rice stock data, actual import arrivals, and historical trends, ensuring the country's rice needs are met despite the production drop,' he said. The stable supply is expected despite the 358,000 MT projected production loss for the last quarter due to weather disturbances and the effects of La Niña. Morales, however, said imported rice will continue to supplement local palay production, ensuring a stable national rice inventory. From January to Oct. 14 this year, the DA has logged 3.57 million tons of rice imports, which is 24 percent hi gher than the 2.84 MT imported in the same period last year. The total annual palay production, meanwhile, is expected to slightly decline to 19.41 million MT, from the earlier target of 20.4 million MT, equivalent to 12.69 million tons of milled rice. Source: Philippines News Agency