NEWSFLASH

---

1998 RICE IMPORTS TO HIT 1.5 MILLION TONS

Manila, April 7, 1998 - The Philippines will import as much as 1.5 million tons of rice this year, due to the drought caused by El Nino.

National Food Authority deputy administrator Gregorio Tan said the NFA has given authority by Malacanang to import as much as 1.5 million ton of the staple grain.

Thus far, the NFA has brought in 500,000 metric tons of rice, mainly from Vietnam (40%), China and Thailand.

"We expect to bring in another 300,000 metric tons or a total of 800,000 tons before the start of the traditional lean rice supply season in September," Tan said.

The Philippines was a net exporter of rice during the Marcos administration, and started importing rice during the Aquino presidency.

---