The Philippine Competition Commission has warned rice importers against sharing sensitive trade information as it monitors compliance with the government’s temporary rice price cap, stressing that businesses must make independent market decisions to preserve fair competition.
During a May 20 dialogue with the Philippine Rice Importers’ Association, the PCC’s Competition Enforcement Office aligned industry practices with Executive Order No. 118, which sets a nationwide maximum selling price of P50 per kilo for imported rice with 5 percent broken grains for 30 days.
The commission said the discussions centered on balancing affordable rice prices for consumers with market stability across the supply chain.
Competition Enforcement Office Director Christian Loren de los Santos said the PCC remains prepared to enforce competition laws but prefers a collaborative approach that offers businesses guidance and technical support.
De los Santos warned importers against exchanging commercially sensitive information such as prices, quantities, and import volumes, saying these practices could distort competition. He urged the association to ensure members comply with both competition rules and government policies.
PRIA President Raffy Herrera said the group supports efforts to strengthen food security and maintain stable rice supply nationwide. He also proposed similar consultations between the PCC and retailer groups to better assess logistics costs and pricing structures.
The PCC said the dialogue is part of broader efforts to prevent market distortions, protect consumer welfare, and promote transparent business practices in essential industries.
