Philippines Importations

The Philippines has extended the rice import ban until the end of 2025 to protect local farmers from the impact of cheaper imports. The move follows a 60-day suspension that began on September 1 to support farmers during harvest season and stabilize domestic prices. The order, signed last month and released to the media on Tuesday, applies to regular and well-milled rice varieties but excludes types not commonly grown locally. The Philippines, one of the world’s largest rice importers, brought in 4.8 million metric tons of rice in 2024, mainly from Vietnam and Thailand. Meanwhile, rice inflation has eased sharply, with prices falling 16.9% in September from a year earlier, reversing from a 15-year high of 24.4% in March 2024.