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Advocates Philippines
Marcos Orders 60-Day Suspension Of Rice Imports To Shield Local Farmers
Photo credit: PCO
In a decisive move aimed at supporting Filipino farmers during the current harvest season, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered a temporary suspension of all rice importation for 60 days starting September 1, 2025.
The directive comes as farmgate prices of palay continue to drop, leaving many local producers struggling to make ends meet. By halting rice imports, the government hopes to stabilize domestic prices and provide immediate relief to farmers who are currently at a disadvantage in the market.
The President made the decision after consulting with key Cabinet officials during his ongoing five-day State Visit to India. The recommendation came from Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr., who raised concerns about the negative impact of cheaper imported rice flooding the local market.
The 60-day suspension is intended to give local farmers a fairer chance to sell their harvest at more sustainable prices. It also forms part of the administration’s broader effort to strengthen food security and reduce the country’s reliance on imported agricultural products.
While the temporary halt may prompt adjustments in the market, the government emphasized that food supply and price stability will be closely monitored throughout the suspension period to prevent any undue disruption to consumers.
This latest measure reflects the administration’s continued focus on protecting local agriculture and ensuring that policy decisions are responsive to the realities on the ground—particularly for those at the heart of food production.
The directive comes as farmgate prices of palay continue to drop, leaving many local producers struggling to make ends meet. By halting rice imports, the government hopes to stabilize domestic prices and provide immediate relief to farmers who are currently at a disadvantage in the market.
The President made the decision after consulting with key Cabinet officials during his ongoing five-day State Visit to India. The recommendation came from Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr., who raised concerns about the negative impact of cheaper imported rice flooding the local market.
The 60-day suspension is intended to give local farmers a fairer chance to sell their harvest at more sustainable prices. It also forms part of the administration’s broader effort to strengthen food security and reduce the country’s reliance on imported agricultural products.
While the temporary halt may prompt adjustments in the market, the government emphasized that food supply and price stability will be closely monitored throughout the suspension period to prevent any undue disruption to consumers.
This latest measure reflects the administration’s continued focus on protecting local agriculture and ensuring that policy decisions are responsive to the realities on the ground—particularly for those at the heart of food production.
Aug 6, 2025
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