P58/Kilo Maximum Suggested Retail Price for Imported Rice Starts January 20

The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced that starting January 20, the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported rice will be set at ₱58 per kilo, initially applicable in Metro Manila.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel emphasized the initiative’s goal of balancing consumer welfare, business sustainability, and farmer support.

“We aim to ensure rice prices remain fair and affordable while safeguarding the profitability of the rice industry. We cannot let greed jeopardize the well-being of the nation,” he said.

Implementation and Review

The MSRP will undergo monthly reviews to consider global rice price trends. Tiu Laurel noted that if international prices continue their current trajectory, a reduction in MSRP could be expected after the review.

This pricing decision follows extensive consultations with rice importers, retailers, stakeholders, government agencies, and law enforcement bodies.

Record Rice Imports and Anti-Smuggling Efforts

The DA reported record-high rice imports of 4.7 million metric tons in 2024, attributing this to declining prices and reduced tariffs that discouraged smuggling. This shift allowed for accurate reflection of import volumes in the market.

Additional Measures

To complement the MSRP policy, the DA has directed Food Terminals Inc. (FTI) to sell rice through KADIWA ng Pangulo outlets at discounted rates:

• ₱45 per kilo for 5% broken (RFA5) rice.
• ₱40 per kilo for 25% broken (RFA25) rice.
• ₱36 per kilo for 100% broken (RFA100), known as Sulit Rice.

Additionally, rice stored for over two months by the National Food Authority (NFA) will be sold to Metro Manila LGUs for ₱38 per kilo to clear warehouses in preparation for the harvest season.