The Department of Agriculture (DA) said the P50 per kilo price cap on imported rice is fair for both consumers and rice sellers, as authorities continue enforcing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order to keep rice prices affordable.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. explained that the ceiling price was based on imported rice costs of around P37 to P38 per kilo. According to the DA, this still leaves enough room for expenses such as transport, handling, spoilage, and reasonable profits for importers, traders, and retailers.
Tiu Laurel said the government is aiming for “balance, not disruption,” stressing that businesses can still earn under the price cap as long as markups are not excessive. He noted that if imported rice lands at P38 per kilo, retail prices should normally be around P48, while the P50 cap already provides extra allowance for hidden costs.
The DA also warned against profiteering, saying the temporary price cap will remain for 30 days to help stabilize rice prices during a difficult economic period. Officials emphasized that the measure is part of the administration’s food security program and is intended to protect consumers from rising food costs.
To help with implementation, the DA said it will deploy teams to markets nationwide to monitor prices and assist retailers. Information materials and contact details will also be distributed so concerns from traders and sellers can be addressed quickly.
The policy is significant because rice is a major household expense for many Filipinos, and keeping prices stable is seen as critical to easing the burden of inflation while maintaining a stable food supply chain.
