DA Proposes Labeling Local, Imported Rice in Retail Markets

Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) is considering implementing labeling measures for both local and imported rice to prevent the mixing of rice varieties in retail markets. In an interview, Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa emphasized the importance of providing consumers with information regarding the origin of rice they purchase.

According to Philippines News Agency, He expressed concerns about potential mislabeling activities where cheaper rice is mixed with more expensive varieties to fetch higher prices. Federation of Free Farmers Cooperatives national manager Raul Montemayor echoed these concerns, stating that some imported rice closely resembles local produce and can easily be mixed, while unscrupulous traders may repackage imported rice as local to increase profits. Retail prices for imported and local rice varieties vary, with imported rice generally cheaper due to global price trends. The DA assured it is investigating the price gap between farmgate and retail prices to ensure fairness for consumers.

According to Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa, the Department of Agriculture is planning to put labels on local and imported rice to prevent the mixing of rice varieties.