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Philippines extends sugar import ban

The Philippine Government has decided to extend its ban on sugar imports until the end of December 2026, as domestic supply has improved. The move aims to continue protecting farmers and domestic producers, as well as stabilising the market.

Hanoi (VNA) – The Philippine Government has decided to extend its ban on sugar imports until the end of December 2026, as domestic supply has improved. The move aims to continue protecting farmers and domestic producers, as well as stabilising the market.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer quoted Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel as saying that the decision is based on the current outlook for sugar production and demand.

The extension of the ban is necessary, as domestic raw sugar output for the 2024–2025 crop year is expected to increase, based on actual inventory data.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) are also preparing a long-delayed regulatory framework governing molasses imports, a move Tiu Laurel said will further protect domestic producers.

Earlier, the Philippines imposed a sugar import ban from mid-October 2025 until mid-2026./.

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