NEWSFLASH

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RP TO IMPORT AUSTRALIAN SUGAR

Manila, April 4, 1998 - The Philippines is inclined to import sugar from Australia. Agriculture Secretary Salvador Escudero said Australia has an edge over the other countries offering to export sugar to the Philippines since it is proposing to extend sugar technology transfer in exchange for sugar imports.

According to Escudero, such technology is important to boost the Philippines' meager yield. Australia is one of the world's biggest sugar producers.

With the technology transfer as a sweetener, Escudero explained that compared to the other potential sugar sources like Thailand, Latin America and Caribbean countries, it is better for the Philippines to import sugar from Australia "which will give us something in return."

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