The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Sunday refuted claims that imported onions are driving down prices for local red onion farmers, responding to complaints from Nueva Ecija growers who allege an oversupply of imported stock is impacting farmgate values.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. Stated that current import levels are “merely plugging a supply gap,” and are not overwhelming the market. The DA’s Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) verified reports indicating that as of February 13, approximately 4,454.09 metric tons of red onions and 5,271.15 metric tons of yellow onions were in cold storage facilities, the vast majority originating from imports.
Despite the presence of imported stock, the DA maintains that these supplies will not significantly affect prices when the local harvest peaks. According to the DA’s National Plant Quarantine Services Division, roughly 8,000 metric tons of red onions covered by import clearances are expected to arrive before the peak of local harvests. Even with the full arrival of these shipments, the DA estimates imported red onions will only last until March 6, coinciding with the start of peak harvest season.
Data from the DA indicates that local red onion production from January to March is projected at 9,325.14 metric tons, representing approximately 18 percent of the total expected production of 52,034.4 metric tons. The department anticipates that production from outlying provinces will further supplement local supply, but does not expect it to further depress prices.
The DA initiated the review following a complaint received via Messenger on February 13, alleging that imported onions were accumulating in cold storage facilities in Central Luzon. The BPI utilized the One-Stop Industry Revitalization and Information System (OSiRiS) to assess the situation. Current warehouse prices average P30.36 per kilo for red onions, suggesting inventories will be depleted by February 19 for red onions and March 15 for yellow onions.
The DA is continuing to monitor the situation and assess the impact of any remaining stocks held in private cold storage facilities.
