Department of Agriculture to Extend Red Onion Import Ban Through August

MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced on Monday that it will continue the import ban on red onions into August, citing a stable supply of local onions in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, who spoke during an ambush interview, the current ban was due to expire at the end of July but will now be extended on a monthly basis as officials monitor the market closely. “As of the moment, there’s no need to import onions… For now, until August,” stated Tiu-Laurel. He highlighted the sufficient domestic production that makes this extension feasible.

The DA has warned against potential manipulation of the market by unscrupulous traders or businessmen who might withhold stock to artificially drive up prices. Tiu-Laurel cautioned, “If they tighten the supply, we will import. We will allow importation to stabilize the prices,” indicating the government’s readiness to intervene to ensure price stability.

As of July 5, the Philippines’ inventory includes 152,839.25 metric tons of red onions, 10,601.42 metric tons of yellow onions, and 63 metric tons of shallots, which are projected to last until February 2025. The department remains vigilant against any market activities that could jeopardize the availability of these essential commodities.

Current prices for local red onions in Metro Manila range between PHP 80 and PHP 150 per kilogram, while white onions are priced from PHP 60 to PHP 130 per kilogram. The DA’s efforts are aimed at maintaining these price levels by ensuring a steady supply through domestic sources and strategic management of imports.