By: Jordeene B. Lagare – Reporter

MANILA, Philippines – Starting July 16, the maximum suggested retail price (MSRP) for imported rice will be lowered to P43 a kilo from the current P45.

In a statement on Thursday, the Department of Agriculture said easing tensions following the ceasefire between Israel and Iran prompted the agency to cut the price ceiling for 5 percent broken imported rice.

“Global rice prices have since declined, alongside softening oil prices,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.

“We are also seeing positive projections for record harvests from key producers like India, Pakistan, and Thailand. These developments could improve global supply and help pull prices further down,” he added.

Meanwhile, the DA is finalizing plans to set the MSRP for imported pork next month and possibly for chicken by September to temper retail prices amid tight domestic meat supply caused by animal disease outbreaks in the country.

Published Date: July 4, 2025