THE PHILIPPINES’ rice imports this year could reach 4.8 million metric tons (MMT), potentially matching or exceeding the elevated level recorded in 2024, as rising input costs and a looming El Niño threaten domestic output, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said.
“Because of the pressure, it’s possible that we will import 4.8 million metric tons this year, or more,” Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel V. de Mesa told reporters on Tuesday.
He said the DA’s rice program has raised its import projection from an initial 4 MMT to ensure an 85-day year-end stock, a food security benchmark used by the agency.
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