Philippines Sees Slow Growth in Fuel Ethanol Imports and Consumption

The Philippines is expected to see an increase in fuel ethanol imports next year, according to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). The country's fuel ethanol consumption is projected to rise by 2% to 875 million liters in 2026. The USDA attributed this growth to low bioethanol reference prices for locally produced bioethanol caused by low average molasses prices and high total supply.

The report also noted that potential conversion of sugarcane land to other uses may affect feedstock availability in the years ahead. To address this, the industry is exploring alternative feedstocks such as corn, sweet sorghum, cassava, and nipa.

Meanwhile, fuel ethanol production is expected to jump 2% to 385 million liters this year due to low bioethanol reference prices. The USDA also forecast biodiesel consumption to rise 1% to 350 million liters while production is projected to increase by 6% to 370 million liters.

There are currently 13 accredited bioethanol producers with a total capacity of 468 million liters per year, which is set to increase once an additional facility becomes fully operational. The country also has 15 accredited biodiesel producers with combined installed capacity of 907 million liters per year.