SRA may extend sugar allocation to small food processors

The Sugar Regulatory Administration may allow small food processors to access sugar allocation if they meet the requirements set by the agency.   “With certain policy assurances, safety nets, checks and balances, we are willing to give the food processors what they ask for,” SRA Administrator Ma. Regina Martin told reporters on Monday.   Two weeks ago, the Philippine Association of Food Processors and Exporters, Inc. (Philfoodex) asked the SRA for 10,000 metric tons of local sugar allotment for small processing companies.   The request translates to giving small companies access to low-priced sugar based on the world market price.   Philfoodex claimed it is acting as “big brother” to micro-, small- and medium-enterprises to boost their export performance.   The sugar agency will hold another dialog with Philfoodex to firm things up, said Martin.   Philippine sugar output is divided into four allocations: A quedan or A sugar refers to the yearly US quota, B sugar is for domestic consumption, C quedan is reserve sugar, and D sugar is for the world market and for local food processors and exporters. — RRD/VS, GMA News