The Department of Agriculture (DA) is planning to import a minimum of 200,000 metric tonens (MT) of refined sugar in September to ensure a stable supply and prevent price increases in the retail market.
During a dinner discussion with members of the media on Wednesday, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. mentioned that the objective of the planned import is to bridge the gap before the milling season begins in October.
“By September, we should have an arrival of at least 200,000 MT of refined sugar to cover the gap before harvest and refining,” he stated.
Laurel indicated that the DA will finalize its sugar order in the second week of July due to the anticipated drop in current sugar stocks by August.
The agriculture secretary assured that the decision was made after consultations with stakeholders.
The DA’s proposal received support from Manuel Lamata, President of the United Sugar Producers Federation (UNIFED).
“This will address the shortage before the harvest season starts in September. The harvest for the upcoming crop year will be delayed due to El Niño, and upon consultation, we approved the proposal,” Lamata stated in a statement.
Earlier, the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) assured that it would closely monitor the country’s buffer stock and market demand trends to avoid a situation similar to August 2022, when refined sugar stocks plummeted to 27,000 MT and retail prices soared to PHP120 per kilogram.
Yes. It is suggested to the Philippines govt. to make discussions with Govt .of India for import of two lakh tonnes of refined sugar. The transport cost of sugar will be low, if they import the refined sugar from India and is a good option. Best Wishes. Dr. Patil A.S.