Duterte issues order to streamline importation

In response to Administrative Order No. 13, signed last week by President Rodrigo Duterte, which intends to streamline the importation of agricultural products, including sugar, recently-elected Confederation of Sugar Producers (Confed) President Ferdinand Marañon released a statement vowing cooperation.

“We, the sugar industry leaders and stakeholders, are prepared to work alongside government agencies,” the release stated.

According to the order, the National Food Authority, Sugar Regulatory Administration, and Department of Agriculture, in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry, are expected to remove “administrative restrains and other non-tariff barriers” on imported goods.

With regard to sugar, the order also specifically permits, if necessary, direct importation by sugar-using industries.

The Confed release affirms, “Sugar supply and prices in the country are stable;” adding, with milling season underway, the market will be further stabilized.

Meanwhile, the order also approved additional rice and fish importation, along with calling for the expedited unloading of agricultural imports./WDJ