MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) is firm on its decision not to impose a ban on rice imports despite surging shipment levels, arguing that the Philippines needs to build buffer stocks ahead of the expected impact of El Niño later this year.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said rice imports, which hit 3.3 million MT last week, must continue as drier conditions loom in November.
READ: PH rice imports seen rising on strong demand
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“There will be no import ban, definitely,” Tiu Laurel told reporters on Tuesday. “There is a big El Niño coming toward November or December. We have to have buffer stocks in preparation for December, January, February, March and April next year.”FEATURED STORIES
