By Anna Leah Gonzales

MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is pushing for the temporary suspension of rice importation and an increase in tariffs on imported rice, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Dave Gomez said Monday.

Last week, the DA said it is pushing for a modest increase in tariffs on imported rice to at least 25 percent from the current 15 percent.

“The Department of Agriculture is recommending an increase in tariffs on imported rice and a temporary halt to importation to protect local farmers,” Gomez said.

The Cabinet would discuss the matter with President Ferdinand R. Matcos Jr. in India on the sidelines of his state visit.

The DA measure is part of the Marcos administration’s target to gradually revert to the original 35 percent tariff on imported rice, a year after the implementation of reduced duties to help lower soaring retail rice prices. (PNA)

Published Date: August 4, 2025