MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has warned rice retailers, traders, and importers that they could face imprisonment, hefty fines, and possible closure of businesses if they violate the government’s newly imposed price ceiling on imported rice.

The warning comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a 30-day price ceiling on imported 5 percent broken rice to address what officials described as unjustified retail prices despite lower global rice costs and reduced import tariffs.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the measure strengthens the government’s enforcement powers compared with earlier pricing interventions.

“Unlike the previous maximum suggested retail price that depended largely on moral suasion and voluntary compliance, the mandated price ceiling now allows the Department of Agriculture to impose punitive sanctions and fines on violators,” Tiu Laurel said.

Under Republic Act No. 7581, or the Price Act, violators of a government-imposed price ceiling on basic necessities may face imprisonment of one to 10 years, fines ranging from P5,000 to P1 million, or both, depending on the court’s discretion.

Rice is classified as a basic necessity under the law, placing it under DA regulatory authority during periods of excessive or unreasonable price increases.

The DA said administrative sanctions may also be imposed under the Price Act’s implementing rules. These include temporary or permanent closure of establishments, confiscation or seizure of goods involved in violations, suspension or revocation of permits and licenses, and the issuance of cease-and-desist orders.

Administrative fines ranging from P1,000 to P1 million may also be imposed on erring establishments.

The law also provides that corporate officers or employees found responsible for violations may be held personally liable.

The DA said monitoring teams and inspectors will intensify inspections in public markets, supermarkets, and rice retail outlets nationwide during the 30-day implementation period. The price ceiling may be adjusted, extended, or lifted following a review.

Officials said the temporary measure is intended to protect consumers from profiteering and unreasonable price increases while helping stabilize rice prices amid ongoing food inflation pressures affecting households.