Philippines rice imports to grow to 5.6 MMT by 2027 – USDA
Philippines rice imports are projected by United States Department of Agriculture to reach 5.6 million tonnes by 2027 due to population growth, El Niño risks and rising input costs. Domestic output may rise to 12.4 million tonnes, while Vietnam’s exports could increase to 8 million tonnes.
MANILA, Philippines — The country’s rice imports are expected to surge to as high as 5.6 million metric tons (MT) by 2027 amid rising demand and population, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
In its latest World Markets and Trade report, USDA said Philippine rice imports are estimated to reach 5.5 million MT this year and grow by 100,000 MT in 2027 due to the country’s growing population and continued importance of rice as a staple.
“The Philippines continues to lead as the largest importer on population growth and food use increases underpinned by global prices that remain low,” the report said.
USDA estimates are higher than the 4.8 million MT in rice imports the Department of Agriculture (DA) earlier projected.
The country imported 3.37 million MT of rice in 2025, government data showed. As of April 30, the Philippines has imported 1.6 million MT of rice, according to the Bureau of Plant Industry.
USDA also reported that Philippine milled rice production would reach 12.4 million MT in 2027, up from 12.2 million MT this year and 12.37 million in 2025.
The DA said the expected drop in local rice production due to the effects of the Middle East conflict on fuel and fertilizer prices and the approaching El Niño weather phenomenon may spur the need for more imports this year.
Meanwhile, Vietnam, the Philippines’ top rice supplier, is estimated to increase exports by another 100,000 MT in 2027 due to growing demand in its traditional markets.
Exports are expected to reach eight million MT next year from the 7.9 million MT projected for 2026.
“Vietnam is forecast as the next largest exporter, as relatively steady production and strong imports ensure sufficient supplies. Vietnam primarily ships to Africa and Southeast Asia markets, especially the Philippines,” USDA said.
Manila recently secured a 1.5 million MT rice deal with Hanoi, to ensure uninterrupted supply of grain shipments until 2027.
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Source : Philstar Global
