The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has urged rice importers to comply with the temporary price ceiling on imported rice, while warning industry players against practices that could weaken competition or lead to coordinated pricing.
The reminder came after the government imposed a nationwide maximum suggested retail price of P50 per kilo for imported rice with five-percent broken content under Executive Order No. 118, issued on May 13.
The 30-day intervention seeks to keep the staple affordable for consumers amid continued pressure on rice prices.
To ensure orderly implementation, the PCC’s Competition Enforcement Office held dialogues with the Philippine Rice Importers Association (PRIA), which represents around 60 major importers.
The antitrust body said the discussions were intended to promote a transparent and predictable framework that protects consumers while preserving fair market conditions across the rice supply chain.
During the talks, the PCC reminded importers that commercial decisions must be made independently. It warned against the sharing of sensitive business information, including pricing strategies, inventory levels, and import volumes, which could raise the risk of collusion.
The commission also urged PRIA officials to ensure that members follow government regulations and competition rules while the temporary price measure is in effect.
PCC Director Christian Loren de los Santos said the commission remains open to working with industry groups through regulatory guidance and technical assistance to help businesses comply with fair competition standards.
PRIA President Raffy Herrera, for his part, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to supporting national food security and maintaining a stable rice supply.
The importers’ group also proposed that the PCC hold similar consultations with local retailers, saying this would help regulators better understand downstream logistics costs and actual retail pricing structures.
The PCC said the dialogue forms part of its continuing effort to coordinate with key industry stakeholders and safeguard competition in essential consumer markets, especially in sectors directly affecting household food costs.