Rice Prices Rise Following Import Ban

Rice Prices Rise Following Import Ban

By Wilma N. Yamzon – TheNationWeek.com | September 2, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Consumers are facing higher rice prices in local markets following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order 93, which suspended the importation of regular and well-milled rice for 60 days, effective this month.

The ban, intended to shield Filipino rice farmers from low-cost imports and stabilize the domestic market, has sparked concerns about supply and affordability.

The Marcos administration argues that the ban is necessary to protect local farmers, particularly given a reported 6% increase in domestic rice production during the first half of 2025.

However, industry analysts question whether this increase is sufficient to meet national demand, considering historical import volumes.

Data reveal that rice imports during the same period in 2023 and 2024 averaged over 750,000 metric tons (MT).

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is now tasked with rigorously enforcing the ban, a move Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno calls a “timely intervention for the agricultural sector.”

The BOC has vowed to crack down on smuggling and misrepresentation of rice imports, implementing enhanced enforcement protocols across all ports and Customs offices.

“The BOC will not tolerate any violations and will ensure full compliance with this ban,” Nepomuceno said.

“We are dedicated to maintaining the integrity of the rice market and will take all necessary measures to prevent illegal imports that undermine the President’s directive,” he added.

While the government emphasizes its commitment to supporting local farmers, consumers are already feeling the pinch.

Market vendors report a noticeable increase in the price of regular and well-milled rice since the ban took effect.

“We understand the need to help our farmers,” said Ching dela Cruz, a market vendor in Manila.

“But the price increase is hurting our customers, especially those with low income.”

The situation is further complicated by the fact that some U.S. rice shipments already en route to the Philippines may arrive after the Sept. 1 cutoff date.

The BOC has stated it will uphold the executive order, raising concerns about potential disruptions to the supply chain.

The ban aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s call for government agencies to enhance service delivery with empathy and integrity.

The BOC has shown its commitment to this vision, having confiscated approximately P354 million worth of smuggled agricultural products by the end of July.

Whether the benefit of protecting local farmers outweighs the potential consequences of rising rice prices remains to be seen.

The next 60 days will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of the import ban on Filipino consumers and the nation’s rice market.