NFA sets bidding for 800,000-MT rice imports

MANILA, Philippines - The National Food Authority (NFA) is bidding out the importation of 800,000 metric tons (MT) of white rice on April 15, agency spokesperson Rex Estoperez said yesterday.

The volume would serve as buffer stock for the traditionally lean months of July to September.

The supplier for Manila’s rice buffer stock this year would be selected though an open bidding to be held at the NFA headquarters in Quezon City.

An open bidding scheme would allow countries and other private companies with no existing rice supply agreement with the Philippines to vie for the supply of Manila’s buffer stock requirement this year.

Only Vietnam and Cambodia currently have supply agreements with the Philippines as Thailand was not able to renew its supply agreement with the country.

Estoperez said that with the open bidding scheme in place, Thailand would be able to participate in the bid without renewing its supply agreement.

An open bidding would also enable the NFA to procure the buffer stock at the best price.

Bidders must be able to supply long grain white rice that is well-milled and with 15 percent brokens.

The winning bidder must be able to deliver the volume in four tranches between April to August.