Good rice harvest means Philippines to import less

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — The Philippines, the world's largest rice importer, expects a good harvest in the next dry season and will import less in the coming year.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said at least 551,155 tons (500,000 metric tons) will be imported next year. The government will allow private traders to import half of the total volume and farmers' groups the remainder from Cambodia, Myanmar or Vietnam.

Alcala said Tuesday the Philippines is expecting a good harvest due to a "quick …