AgriculturePhilippine rice tariff cut will benefit Vietnam, not farmers, experts say
World's top rice importer moves to contain inflation with 'double-edged sword'
A panel led by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on June 4 announced a plan to slash the tariff on imported rice. © Getty Images
RAMON ROYANDOYAN, Nikkei staff writer
MANILA -- The Philippines, the world's top rice importer, is moving to cut tariffs on the staple food from 35% to 15% through 2028 to ease the country's inflation woes. But analysts worry the move could benefit foreign producers such as Vietnam and leave Filipino farmers struggling to compete.