The Department of Agriculture (DA) has temporarily stopped the export of purple yam, locally known as ube, in a bid to address the shortage of planting materials needed to boost domestic production.
The move is part of government efforts to expand ube cultivation across different regions and strengthen the country’s supply base for the crop.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) first enforced the suspension in August, covering ube shipments intended for export.
The restriction also includes all planting materials used for propagation, regardless of whether they are for commercial planting, direct consumption, or research purposes.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. said the policy is intended to ensure that sufficient planting materials remain in the country as the government works to increase production capacity.
Once local supply stabilizes and production improves, the DA said ube is expected to regain stronger export potential and contribute more significantly to the agricultural economy.
