by PressRice and corn production is growing in the Philippines: sector overview
Rice and corn production is showing good growth rates
While some countries are experiencing a decline in agricultural production, the Philippines is showing the opposite trend. Thanks to stable climatic conditions, the country is increasing its rice and corn production. These crops are important for the domestic food market.
Rice production trends
According to FAS data, the Philippines harvested over 12 million tons of milled rice during the 2024–2025 marketing year. Favorable climatic conditions have allowed analysts to make an optimistic forecast for the 2025–2026 season. Nearly 12.3 million tons the harvest should reach.
The favorable climate encourages farmers to expand their acreage. The state provides additional support through programs that subsidize rice producers. These measures aim to strengthen food security and reduce dependence on imports.
Corn production overview
In the 2024-2025 season, farmers harvested more than 8 million tons of corn. Production is expected to reach 8.3 million tons in 2025-2026. Two key factors contribute to this increase:
1. Weather conditions: The last two years have been less dry, which has positively impacted the harvest.
2. Pest control has been successful. Farmers are using modern plant protection methods. This is particularly important in the fight against the corn leafworm, one of the main pests affecting the harvest. Improved agricultural knowledge and effective practices ensure better crop sustainability.
The FAS forecasts an increase in grain stocks during the current season. Stocks will grow by 21.5% to reach 283,000 tons. Analysts also note a rise in demand for white corn from local consumers. This variety is in high demand among nacho and snack producers. Yellow corn has a stable demand from livestock feed producers. These trends stimulate the expansion of institutional buyers’ stocks.
Despite the growth in domestic production, the Philippines continues to import significant amounts of corn. In the 2024–2025 marketing year, imports amounted to 1.6 million tons; in the current season, this figure may reach 1.8 million tons. Feed producers remain the primary consumers of imported corn. The country continues to have a high demand for poultry and pet food. Additionally, feed is used in aquaculture.
At the same time, the Philippines does not rely on a single supplier. The Philippines responds flexibly to changes in global prices and market conditions. Depending on the current market situation, buyers choose the most advantageous offers.