Manila: The government has announced an extension of the current two-month rice import ban for at least an additional 30 days, aiming to alleviate the impact of declining farmgate prices of palay (unhusked rice), as disclosed by the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday. DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stated that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. approved the decision to support Filipino farmers during their peak harvest season.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel mentioned that the ban might even be prolonged until the end of the year, contingent on prevailing market conditions. In an ambush interview, he explained, “It has been decided to extend the import ban for at least 30 days, and it is even possible to extend it until the end of the year,” echoing similar demands from rice millers and traders.
Currently, the buying price of palay has plummeted to PHP8 per kilogram, down from earlier prices of around PHP14 per kg in certain regions, and as high as PHP17 per kg in Zamboanga at the start of the temporary rice import ban when the harvest began. Tiu Laurel also noted sporadic reports of palay being purchased at PHP6 per kg in some areas, as farmers struggle to dry their harvest amid persistent heavy rains.
“This is quite alarming. That’s why, since over the weekend, all parties including the DA, NFA (National Food Authority), and even the President, have been working together,” Tiu Laurel said. “These are the actions decided to immediately address the situation and help our farmers.”
The agriculture chief further indicated that the government is considering raising the current 15-percent tariff back to a higher level once the import halt concludes. Initially, the duties on imported rice were set at 35 percent but were reduced under Executive Order No. 62 in July 2024 to manage rising retail prices.
Additional measures to address the low buying price of palay include prohibiting government agencies from purchasing imported rice, planned emergency procurement of palay, and expanding warehouse storage through additional NFA leases. Furthermore, the DA plans to issue a floor price for palay to ensure fair buying rates are maintained nationwide.
