The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Monday an extension of the ban on onion imports until August, with potential for further extensions depending on domestic supply.
DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said that current domestic onion production is sufficient, eliminating the need for imports in the meantime. “There’s no need to import onions. For now, until August,” the DA chief said in an ambush interview.
“We’re monitoring everything closely. As of the moment, we don’t need to import onions. But we will extend the ban monthly, for now until August,” he said.
The agency will conduct a day-to-day monitoring, the official added.
Tiu Laurel warned traders not to engage in hoarding, emphasizing that imports will be allowed if artificial shortages are detected.
“There may be unscrupulous traders or businessmen out there who will tighten their release of stocks,” Tiu Laurel said.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) projects that domestic onion supply will meet demand through early 2025, ensuring market stability.
According to July 12 data of the DA’s Bantay Presyo, red onion sells for P80 to P150 a kilo while white onions are sold starting from P60 to P130 a kilo.
The year 2024 has seen a 40 percent increase in onion planting areas, with Central Luzon being a major contributor. Monthly consumption estimates are at 4,000 metric tons for white onions and 17,000 metric tons for red onions.
The DA remains committed to monitoring the onion market closely and implementing measures to maintain price stability and protect both consumers and farmers.
The existing import ban is set to expire by the end of July.
As of July 5, the country has 152,839.25 metric tons (MT) of red onions, 10,601.42 MT of yellow onions, and 63 MT of shallots, according to the DA. The country’s onion inventory may last eight months or until February 2025.
