Rice Tariffs Fixed at 15% Through 2025, Sliding Scale to Apply Starting 2026

Malacañang has extended the 15 percent tariff on imported rice until December 31, 2025 under Executive Order No. 105, while setting a new mechanism that will adjust rates beginning January 1, 2026 based on global market prices.

The order maintains the current Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate for both in-quota and out-quota imports through 2025. Starting in 2026, tariffs will rise by five percentage points for every five percent drop in international rice prices, or fall by the same margin for every five percent increase. Rates will remain within a floor of 15 percent and a ceiling of 35 percent.

To oversee implementation, the EO creates the Inter-Agency Group on Rice Tariff Adjustment, composed of representatives from the Departments of Agriculture, Trade and Industry, Finance, and Economy, Planning and Development, along with the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs. The group will monitor global prices, set thresholds, and certify when adjustments should take effect.

Officials said the policy aims to balance consumer protection and farmer support, ensuring rice remains affordable while shielding local producers from volatile international markets.