The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) have reassured sugar farmers, millers, and traders that no new sugar imports will be allowed until around May or June 2026.
In a meeting held in Negros on October 9, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu-Laurel Jr., SRA Administrator Paul Azcona, and Farmer Representative Dave Sanson acknowledged concerns about unusually low raw sugar prices during the recent bidding.
They emphasized that no import program for the 2025–2026 crop year will be activated until the milling season is complete and production figures are confirmed. Any imports, if needed, will be classified strictly as “C” or reserve sugar, and will not enter the domestic market.
To support stability in supply and prices, the agencies also agreed to maintain a two-month buffer stock of refined sugar.
Dave Sanson welcomed the import freeze, stating it signals that the government is prioritizing farmers’ welfare and may help stabilize prices now that speculation has eased.