The Department of Agriculture (DA) said Wednesday the Philippines will refrain from importing sugar until the milling season concludes by May or June 2026 to stabilize prices and reassure local farmers.
The commitment followed a meeting between the DA and the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) to address concerns over declining raw sugar prices during the first sugar bidding in Negros Occidental on Oct. 9, 2025. The bidding, one of the weekly sales held during the 38-week harvest season, saw some major traders hold off on purchases.
“Let us be clear, there is, and never was, any talk of an importation program for crop year 2025-2026 until we finish significant milling, have firm production figures and ensure any imports would only be classified as C or reserve sugar,” DA and SRA officials said in a statement.
Market uncertainty, partly triggered by conflicting statements from various farmer groups, was revealed in initial consultations with traders, prompting the government to clarify that no importation programs are ongoing or planned for Crop Year 2025–2026.
To further ensure market stability, the officials also agreed to maintain a two-month buffer stock of refined sugar. Any potential future imports, if deemed necessary, will be strictly classified as reserve (C) sugar and will not enter the domestic market directly.
“This assures our farmers that the current administration prioritizes their welfare. It’s a welcome development, and we hope this stabilizes prices now that speculation has been addressed,” said sugar farmer representative Dave Sanson.
The sugar industry has seen continued growth since 2022, with planted areas expanding from 380,000 hectares to 409,000 hectares this year. Farmgate prices have remained stable, encouraging more farmers to cultivate sugarcane, and retail prices have also held steady.
