Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. confirmed on Thursday the approval of onion imports to safeguard against potential price hikes. The Department of Agriculture (DA) has authorized the importation of 3,000 metric tons of red onions and 1,000 metric tons of white onions, expected to arrive within two weeks. The move aims to ensure adequate buffer stocks while waiting for the new harvest season.
The decision follows the high onion prices of 2022, when shortages and delayed imports drove prices to a record P700 per kilo. With average monthly consumption at 17,000 metric tons for red onions and 4,000 metric tons for white onions, the DA seeks to avoid a repeat of past crises. The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) reported sufficient inventory levels for red onions as of mid-January, though recent weather disruptions and pest concerns prompted this proactive importation strategy.
BPI director Glenn Panganiban explained that the imports would help mitigate supply gaps amid unpredictable factors affecting production. Projections show a substantial harvest beginning in March, with around 33,000 metric tons expected, further stabilizing the supply.
