DA mulls 'gradual' increase in rice tariff

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is pushing for the retention of the current rice tariff rate of 15 percent for the next quarter before a "gradual" increase is made to prevent market shocks.

- By JASPER EMMANUEL ARCALAS

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said he and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan think that any increase in the rice tariff should be made in the next review, which will be at the end of the first half.

Tiu Laurel said they would meet with President Marcos to discuss the recent review on the rice tariffs and the possible actions moving forward.

"We will be recommending an increase in tariff (in June), but maybe gradual increases so there will be no market shocks," he said.

The rate of increase will still have to be determined during the next round of review.

"What should not happen, which I think is correct, is (an increase) from 15 percent to 35 percent in one go," Tiu Laurel said.

"That is dangerous. There will be market shocks. That is my personal recommendation," he added.