Philippines plans 2026 imports of 3.8M tons as supply fears lingerA worker arranges sacks of rice at a local rice store in Quezon City on October 4, 2023. MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture said the Philippines may import as much as 3.8 million metric tons of rice in 2026, as domestic production is expected to remain flat while demand continues to rise. Data from the Bureau of Plant Industry showed that rice importation declined by 30% in 2025, falling to 3.37 million metric tons from 4.8 million metric tons in 2024. Trying to assuage worries of citizens over rice prices, Tiu Laurel said the department is seeking to prevent another surge by expanding the implementation of the P20-per-kilo rice program. Budget support, higher tariffsThe P20-per-kilo rice program is being implemented under the DA’s declaration of a food security emergency, which remains in effect.

Source: Philippine Star January 09, 2026 07:07 UTC