Philippines redefines rice import policy with market-linked tariff framework for 2026

and well-milled rice until December 31, 2025. According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the resumption of imports early next year is essential to ensure adequate buffer stocks ahead of the next harvest season. The Department of Agriculture (DA) has set December 15, 2025, as the internal deadline to finalize the tariff rate applicable from January 1, 2026, which will replace the current 15 per cent levy. The new tariff framework, endorsed by the Economic Development Council and the Tariff and Related Matters Committee (TRMC), will adopt a gradual, price-linked adjustment mechanism, with rates moving by five percentage points for every 5 per cent change in global rice prices, bounded between 15 per cent and 35 per cent. This dynamic formula is intended to cushion both farmers and consumers from volatile international rice markets. The DA has clarified that the new rate “will not be 15 per cent” when imports resume, signaling an upward adjustment as part of the ...