Philippines may more than double corn import quota

The Philippine Department of Agriculture is proposing to more than double the corn import quota under the Minimum Access Volume scheme to 500 thsd tons from the current 220 thsd tons. The move is aimed at ensuring adequate feed supplies for the country’s hog and poultry sectors.

The proposal is driven by the risk of lower domestic production due to the expected El Niño. Drier conditions could reduce yields and discourage corn planting, adding further pressure to the domestic market in the first half of 2027.

Corn prices in the Philippines are already rising. Farm-gate prices were around 19 pesos/kg in June and are now estimated by market participants at 20–23 pesos/kg.

The issue is particularly important for the livestock sector, as feed accounts for 50–60% of total hog and poultry production costs, while corn makes up 50–65% of feed rations. Higher grain prices therefore directly increase the cost of meat and poultry production.

Producers are also facing higher fertilizer and logistics costs linked to rising diesel prices. The government expects that a larger import quota could help contain feed costs and support the competitiveness of the hog and poultry industries.

Tags: corn, Philippines, imports