MANILA, Philippines — Rice imports may hit a new record this year amid expectations the country would need to increase its stockpile for lean months following substantial losses from typhoons. “Other farmers are already able to [harvest more than the average rice yield] as long as they have enough capital, so it is not impossible,” said Cathy Estavillo of the Amihan National Federation of Peasant Women. Article continues after this advertisementREAD: Agricultural damage due to Kristine climbs to P3.11BThe group said the current yield of 4.17 metric tons (MT) of rice per hectare could be increased to 5 MT per hectare and raise the country’s average rice yield per hectare by 20 percent. The volume of rice imports entering the country is estimated at 4.2 million MT by year-end, Sebastian said, citing DA projections. Article continues after this advertisement“That means in November and December, we will probably be expecting another 400,000 MT minimum,” Sebastian told attendees of the World Rice Conference held in Pasay City.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer November 07, 2024 03:44 UTC