Marcos extends rice import ban until December 31

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order No. (EO) 102, extending the suspension of regular and well-milled rice importation until December 31, 2025 to protect local farmers and stabilize market prices.

The order, recommended by the Department of Agriculture (DA) in consultation with the Departments of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) and Trade and Industry (DTI), follows EO No. 93, which earlier halted rice imports from September 1 to October 30, 2025.

Malacañang said the move aims to prevent price drops caused by imported rice and ensure Filipino farmers can sell their palay at fair prices. The suspension, however, does not cover specialty rice varieties not commonly grown in the country.

The DA, DEPDev, and DTI are directed to assess the policy’s impact on supply and prices within 30 days and submit recommendations to the President within 15 days after their review.

EO 102, signed on October 30, takes effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.IMT