Mixed signals on riceBBM’s administration is giving mixed signals on rice policy, a gut issue of importance to the masa. Perez, a lawyer rather than an agriculturist or economist, said the DA was consulted regarding the rice tariff reduction before the NEDA Board approval. A cabal of rice traders who provide logistics and financing to farmers, use farmers for political cover to protect their interests. That will lead to a significant decline in world rice prices. The government should also keep the rice traders guessing, something a variable tariff system makes possible.

Source: Philippine Star June 19, 2024 07:32 UTC