Manila: There is a need to increase sugar imports as the refined sugar production in the country is estimated to be lower by 100,000 metric tons (MT) due to early milling and weather disturbances, said the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), reports Philstar.
SRA acting administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said in a media interview that the sugar output is likely to be lower by 100,000 MT.
“We have reached 640,000 MT but are far away from last year’s output of 750,000 MT,” he said.
Heavy rainfall that delayed harvesting cane resulted in a delay in crushing was one of the major reasons for lower output, he said.
The mills have informed SRA that they are about to end their milling which is surprising as milling continues till June end.
SRA has recommended the importation of up to 150,000 MT to meet domestic demand. President Marcos has already approved the import of 150,000 MT of sugar to boost supply.
