VOV.VN – The Philippines plans to sign an agreement to import an initial 2.5 million tonnes of rice from Vietnam as part of its 2026 procurement strategy.

The Philippines is expected to import 3.6 million tonnes of rice in 2026, with 75–80% likely to come from Vietnam, according to information disclosed during a recent meeting between Philippine Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. and Vietnamese Trade Counselor in the Philippines Le Phu Cuong.

The event covered multiple areas of cooperation, with rice trade identified as the key focus.

To operationalise bilateral rice cooperation, the Philippine Secretary suggested that both sides move forward with a rice import agreement. However, Laurel said the Philippines would manage import volumes to protect local farmers, particularly during domestic harvest periods. He also outlined tariff policies applied to rice imports from partner countries, including Vietnam.

For his part, Cuong urged Manila to enhance coordination through ASEAN consultation mechanisms, especially ahead of policy changes, noting that the Philippines is assuming its role as ASEAN Chair in 2026.

In addition to rice, the Vietnam Trade Office in the Philippines also urged the Filipino authorities to consider expanding market access for other Vietnamese agricultural products.

In response, the Philippine Secretary said there is strong demand in the country for items such as fresh chilli peppers, bell peppers, garlic, carrots and onions. He suggested that Vietnamese enterprises with supply capacity could ramp up exports to the Philippine market.

Meanwhile, the Philippine side proposed that Vietnam open its market to Philippine products such as seafood, frozen chicken, chicken feet, and others.

The Vietnam Trade Office also suggested both sides strengthen coordination on sharing agricultural investment opportunities, as well as supporting Vietnamese agribusinesses seeking to invest in the Philippines.

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Published Date: January 14, 2026