DA Develops Quantitative Restrictions on Rice Imports to Safeguard Local Farmers
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced it is formulating a measure to impose quantitative restrictions on rice importers, a strategic move designed to bolster support for local rice producers across the Philippines. This initiative emerges as the agency anticipates the enactment of the proposed Rice Industry and Consumer Empowerment (RICE) Act, signaling a pivotal shift in agricultural policy.
Investment Requirements for Import Allocations
In a recent ambush interview during the induction of new officers for the Economic Journalists Association (EJAP), DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. outlined the core principle behind the restrictions. "Basically, you have to invest in the local industry. You have to buy palay (unhusked rice) or bigas (rice) in order to get an import allocation. That's the general idea at the moment," he explained. This approach mandates that importers contribute to the domestic market before receiving permission to bring in foreign rice, thereby fostering a more sustainable ecosystem for Filipino farmers.
Implementation Timeline and Goals
While the specific ratio linking local procurement to import allocations remains undetermined, Secretary Tiu Laurel revealed plans for initial trials to commence by July 2026, with full implementation targeted by the end of the year. "Hopefully, July. Sa second half of this year sana, at least a version of it should be implemented already," he stated. The ultimate objective is to establish a robust system by year-end, enhancing the framework for future import allocations and ensuring its effectiveness in protecting agricultural interests.
Data-Driven Approach and Broader Objectives
The new system aims to advance a data-driven methodology for managing rice importation and inventory data in the country. Key goals include:
- Shielding local farmers from declining farmgate prices exacerbated by liberalized importation under the Rice Tariffication Law.
- Preventing or identifying instances of profiteering and smuggling within the rice supply chain.
- Rationalizing the distribution system to improve efficiency and transparency.
Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized the critical role of data, noting, "We need data-driven decisions; data is really critical." Required information from stakeholders will encompass import delivery trails, details on traders and millers involved, and retail market destinations.
Stakeholder Engagement and Farmer Protection
The DA is actively engaging with various stakeholders, including importers, traders, and millers, through a newly formed Technical Working Group (TWG) for rice importation. Secretary Tiu Laurel highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, "I told them that I have 10 million farmers. Of course, maybe 2.8 million are rice farmers. I have to make sure that they are protected and make sure they are profitable." Ensuring profitability is deemed essential to sustain local farmers' cropping intentions and long-term viability.
"Hihingiin namin for the recommendation of the private sector and tweak it a little to come out with a win-win solution for all," he added, underscoring the commitment to a balanced approach that benefits all parties involved.
Projected Rice Imports for 2026
For the year 2026, the DA projects rice imports to range between 3.6 million metric tons (MMT) and 3.8 MMT. This volume is intended to supplement local production and maintain a secure buffer stock. Notably, this estimate represents a significant decrease from the 4.8 MMT imported in 2024, though it is slightly higher than the 3.38 MMT recorded in 2025, reflecting adjusted strategies in response to evolving market conditions and policy shifts.
