The Department of Agriculture (DA) is exploring multiple measures to support local rice growers amid rising imports.
DA chief Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the government is asking importers to temporarily halt bringing in premium 5 percent broken rice, while also planning to extend the existing P50/kg price cap on this variety for two more months until September. A Tariff Commission hearing this month will also decide on proposed safeguard duties on rice imports.
As of June 18, over 2.5 million metric tons of rice have entered the country this year, 84 percent from Vietnam. Latest prices show local well-milled rice at P50/kg, matching premium imported rates, while regular local milled rice is at P45/kg.
