The Filipino government is urging sellers to stop storing onions in order to avoid having them spoiled. This could create an artificial shortage that could result in increased prices for onions. The Agriculture Secretary Rex Estoperez also said the government could be forced import onions if the traders do not sell their inventory. Estoperez added that the government would not want to see a rise in retail prices for onions like what was seen in December of last year where red onions were bought at a price of P720 for a kg.

“We won’t allow this [P720 for a kilo of onionsoccur. The last time we heard, traders had promised to clear their stocks, however it didn’t happen, and in fact led to delays in importation.”

In addition, he said that the government will have to permit white onion imports due to the growing demands for them in establishments and restaurants.

[ P10 = EUR0.16 ]

Source: businessmirror.com.ph