DA eyes higher tariff on artificial sugars

MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday said it is considering higher tariffs on artificial sugars as another measure to boost demand for locally produced sugar, following its recent decision to extend the sugar import ban until the end of 2026.

DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said he has already discussed the idea with Finance Secretary Frederick Go.

“Sabi niya, mukhang okay naman sa kanila. So we’re going to formulate and calculate kung ano ba malaga yung tamang tariff rate na pwede… More or less may consent na si Sec. Go to study and pursue,” he told reporters at the sidelines of an Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines event.

The move comes after artificial sugar imports rose significantly in 2025, which Tiu Laurel said had thrown off government projections on sugar consumption and requirements.

“In terms of equivalent sa sugar, ang artificial sugar nag-increase ang pasok by 200,000 tons, so yun and naging issue. Hindi siya regulated e,” he said.

But the agri chief noted that the tariff rate, currently at 5 percent, will not be drastically increased.

“It should not be too high, but at least igalaw para nga mas magkaroon ng demand yung ating local sugar,” he added.

The DA is also looking at further regulating the importation of molasses. Already, there is a moratorium on molasses import until March.

“Meron ding problema doon. Ang importation niya is also unregulated, na pag dumating yung molasses sa port natin, tsaka nila ide-declare then we just issue a permit. So ngayon we’re planning to regulate that also,” said Tiu Laurel.

The plan includes an audit of all molasses users.

“To make alcohol, kailangan local molasses ang ginagamit pero mukhang mas malaki yung napo-process… Meron kaming nakikitang discrepancy lang,” he said.