Food Manufacturers Push for Price Hike on Sardines and Bread

Food manufacturers and bakers are urging the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to approve long-requested price increases for sardines and bread, citing rising production costs. The Sardines Association of the Philippines is advocating for a P3 hike per can of sardines, while the Philippine Baking Industry Group (PhilBaking) seeks a P5 increase for Pinoy tasty bread and pandesal.

The sardine industry has been struggling with increased costs, including higher wages and fluctuating fuel prices. “Fish prices have surged from around P21 to nearly P40,” said CSAP spokesperson Bombit Buencamino, noting that the absence of previous price adjustments has led to the suspension of some operations.

Similarly, bakers are facing difficulties due to rising costs of sugar, labor, and fuel. PhilBaking President Jon Chua warned that the current subsidies on bread products are unsustainable, which could result in reduced supply during the Christmas season.

The DTI is currently reviewing possible price adjustments for 60 different products.