The Philippine Association of Feed Millers Inc. (PAFMI) said the government must consider extending the reduced tariff on corn, which now stands at 5 percent, regardless of volume, beyond the end of the year.
PAFMI said in a statement this will fill the supply gaps and help in sustaining local production of quality meat, eggs and fish while keeping prices at affordable levels.
PAFMI said that while the updated demand and supply report released by the Department of Agriculture – National Corn Program showed an increase in local corn sufficiency from 64 percent to 73 percent since July 2023, implications of major weather disturbances such as typhoons and dry spells in the first half of the year have yet to be reported.
The group said these could impact on the supply and quality of corn which in turn could increase the cost of meat, eggs and fish.
Edwin Mapanao, PAFMI president, said corn is a staple crop in the Philippines as it serves as a vital food, animal feed and industrial raw material.
“Yellow corn comprises up to 60 percent of the formulation of animal feeds and is utilized in food and bioethanol production. As it plays a role in many industries, ensuring the country has access to affordable and good quality corn is an issue that not only affects the livelihood of farmers but also has broader implications on food security and economic stability for the rest of the community,” Mapanao said in a statement. – Jed Macapagal