Jul 09, 2025
MANILA — The Sugar Regulatory Administration board has authorized the importation of 424,000 metric tons of sugar.
Under the Sugar Number 8, the SRA announced the importation, which is the first for crop year 2024-2025.
The Department of Agriculture said the importation will ensure a steady supply of the sweetener, while preventing future price shocks.
"Para masigurado natin ang stability ng presyo hanggang sa susunod na milling season," said Asec. Arnel de Mesa.
(This is so we can ensure the stability of prices until the next milling season.)
The domestic production of sugar has taken a hit due to pest infestation in sugarcane plantations.
Nearly 190 hectares of sugar land in the Visayas have been affected by the spread of red-striped soft scale insects (RSSI), according to the Sugar Regulatory Administration. In Negros Occidental, 186 hectares were hit by the infestation, affecting 115 farmers.