The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) expressed confidence yesterday that there is an adequate rice buffer stock in the province, despite a temporary importation ban ordered by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

In an interview, NOCCI President Edward Du told the Philippine News Agency that the President’s order of a 60-day ban on rice importation starting September 1 would not put a dent in local businesses.

“We understand that this is to give way to local rice farmers to sell their produce during the harvest season,” Du said.

“But based on experience, under normal circumstances, rice importers and the local rice traders here have more than enough supply that can go beyond 60 days,” he noted.

Du said he supports the ban, which will allow farmers to sell their rice to traders in Dumaguete City, and would benefit both parties.

There will be no hoarding of rice, especially the premium quality, by unscrupulous persons as the prices of the staple have even gone down in recent months, he added.

A 50-kilo sack of imported premium rice sold at P2,500 several months ago has now dropped to P2,000.

Meanwhile, Du expressed concern over the perceived closure of rice mills in the province due to high overhead costs.

While unable to provide specific numbers, he said NOCCI has received reports that only a few rice mills were operational, and this could be a concern for local farmers.

The National Food Authority buys palay (unhusked rice), but many farmers opt not to sell their rice as they either set this aside for personal consumption or sell it directly to the market. (PNA)