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Brazilian Sugar Suppliers for Philippines: 2025 Complete Import Guide

Updated: Nov 12, 2025

The Philippines imported over 400,000 metric tons of refined sugar in 2024, with Brazilian suppliers accounting for a growing share of this market. As domestic production fluctuates and prices remain volatile, Philippine businesses are increasingly looking to Brazil—the world's largest sugar exporter—for reliable, cost-effective supply.

But importing sugar from Brazil involves more than finding a supplier online. You need to understand documentation requirements, payment security, quality standards, shipping logistics, and customs procedures specific to the Philippine market.

SUGAR WHOLESALE SUPPLIERS PHILIPPINES

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything Philippine businesses need to know about importing Brazilian sugar. You'll learn about available sugar grades, typical pricing structures, documentation requirements, and how to identify legitimate suppliers who can deliver consistent quality to your Philippine facility.

Whether you're a food manufacturer seeking ICUMSA 45 refined white sugar or a refinery sourcing VHP raw sugar, this guide provides actionable insights for successful Brazilian sugar imports to the Philippines.

In This Guide:


Why Philippine Businesses Choose Brazilian Sugar

Brazil produces approximately 40 million metric tons of sugar annually according to UNICA (Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association), making it the world's dominant sugar supplier. For Philippine businesses, Brazilian sugar offers several compelling advantages over alternatives.


Competitive Pricing and Market Stability


Brazilian sugar typically trades at prices 10-15% lower than refined sugar from Thailand or Australia, primarily due to Brazil's massive production scale and efficient agricultural practices. The country's established ethanol industry also creates pricing flexibility—when ethanol prices rise, more cane goes to ethanol production, and when sugar prices are favorable, production shifts accordingly.

This dynamic creates opportunities for Philippine importers to negotiate competitive rates, especially during Brazil's harvest season from April to November when supply peaks.


Consistent Quality Standards


Brazilian sugar mills operate under strict international quality control systems. ICUMSA 45 refined white sugar from Brazil consistently meets specifications required by Philippine food and beverage manufacturers. The sugar undergoes multiple refining stages and quality testing before export, ensuring color, polarization, moisture, and ash content meet international ICUMSA (International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis) standards.

Many Brazilian suppliers also facilitate third-party inspection through SGS or similar agencies, providing Philippine buyers with independent quality verification before shipment.


Reliable Supply Chain Infrastructure


Brazil's sugar export infrastructure is among the world's most developed. Major shipping ports like Santos and Paranaguá handle millions of tons annually, with established shipping routes to Manila and other Philippine ports. Transit times typically range from 30-40 days depending on your destination port and shipping schedule.


Flexible Order Quantities


Unlike some sugar origins that require massive minimum orders, Brazilian suppliers often work with Philippine businesses on orders starting from 12,500 MT (one container) up to 50,000+ MT for larger operations. This flexibility makes Brazilian sugar accessible to mid-sized Philippine manufacturers, not just major importers.


Types of Brazilian Sugar for the Philippine Market


Understanding which sugar grade matches your requirements is essential before contacting suppliers. Brazilian exporters typically offer three main types to Philippine buyers.


ICUMSA 45 Refined White Sugar

Best For: Food manufacturing, beverages, confectionery, pharmaceuticals

ICUMSA 45 represents the highest purity refined white sugar available, meeting international ICUMSA color standards. This sugar undergoes extensive refining to achieve its characteristic bright white color and 99.8% minimum sucrose content.

Technical Specifications:

  • Color: Maximum 45 ICUMSA units

  • Polarization: 99.8% minimum

  • Moisture: 0.04% maximum

  • Ash content: 0.04% maximum

  • Crystal size: Fine to medium

Philippine food manufacturers prefer ICUMSA 45 for products where color and purity are critical—soft drinks, dairy products, baked goods, and confectionery. The sugar dissolves quickly and leaves no residual taste or color in finished products.

Typical Pricing: FOB Brazil ports ranges from $380-$450 per MT depending on order volume, payment terms, and market conditions.


ICUMSA 150 Refined Sugar

Best For: Industrial applications, general manufacturing, export processing

ICUMSA 150 is a slightly lower-grade refined sugar that still maintains excellent quality for most applications. The higher ICUMSA number indicates a slightly darker color, but the sugar remains highly refined with consistent performance characteristics.

Technical Specifications:

  • Color: Maximum 150 ICUMSA units

  • Polarization: 99.6% minimum

  • Moisture: 0.10% maximum

  • Ash content: 0.10% maximum

Many Philippine processors choose ICUMSA 150 as a cost-effective alternative when pure white color isn't essential for the end product. The price difference—typically $15-25 per MT less than ICUMSA 45—can represent significant savings on large orders.


VHP Raw Sugar (Very High Polarization)

Best For: Sugar refineries, bioethanol production, industrial refining

VHP raw sugar is a partially processed brown sugar designed for further refining. Philippine sugar refineries import VHP as feedstock for their refining operations, taking advantage of Brazil's competitive raw sugar pricing.

Technical Specifications:

  • Polarization: 96-98%

  • Color: 600-1200 ICUMSA units

  • Moisture: 0.30% maximum

VHP offers the lowest per-ton cost but requires refining infrastructure. If your operation includes refining capability, VHP from Brazil can provide substantial cost advantages over purchasing refined sugar.

💡 Pro Tip: Request detailed specification sheets and recent test certificates when evaluating suppliers. Legitimate Brazilian exporters readily provide SGS or similar independent lab analysis for their sugar products.


How to Import Brazilian Sugar to the Philippines: Step-by-Step Process

Importing sugar from Brazil to the Philippines involves several critical stages. Understanding this process helps you plan timelines, manage costs, and avoid common delays.

Step 1: Supplier Verification and Quotation (Week 1-2)

Begin by identifying potential Brazilian suppliers and requesting detailed quotations. Your quote request should specify:

  • Sugar grade (ICUMSA 45, 150, or VHP)

  • Quantity required (in metric tons)

  • Destination port (Manila, Cebu, Davao, etc.)

  • Payment terms preferred (LC, TT, etc.)

  • Required delivery timeframe

Legitimate suppliers will respond within 24-48 hours with detailed quotations including FOB/CIF pricing, specifications, payment terms, and delivery schedules. During this stage, verify the supplier's business registration (CNPJ number through Brazil's Receita Federal) and export credentials.

Step 2: Price Negotiation and Contract Terms (Week 2-3)

Once you've received quotations, compare pricing against current commodity market rates. Brazilian sugar pricing correlates with New York #11 raw sugar futures (ICE Futures US) and London #5 white sugar futures (ICE Exchange). Your quoted price should align with these benchmarks plus reasonable margins.

Negotiate key terms including:

  • Pricing structure: Fixed price or linked to commodity index

  • Payment terms: Letter of Credit (LC) is standard for first transactions

  • Inspection rights: SGS or equivalent third-party inspection

  • Shipping terms: FOB (Free on Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)

  • Delivery schedule: Target loading dates and arrival windows

Request a proforma invoice detailing all terms before proceeding to payment arrangements.

Step 3: Letter of Credit Establishment (Week 3-4)

For first-time transactions, Brazilian suppliers typically require an irrevocable Letter of Credit confirmed by an international bank. Work with your Philippine bank to establish an LC that includes:

  • Complete product specifications

  • Required certificates (phytosanitary, quality, origin)

  • Inspection provisions

  • Shipping documents needed

  • Latest shipment date

Your bank will charge LC opening fees (typically 0.15-0.25% of transaction value) plus amendment fees if terms change. Budget for these costs in your total import expense calculation.

Step 4: Production and Quality Inspection (Week 4-6)

Once payment terms are secured, the Brazilian supplier begins processing your order. For large quantities, sugar may be sourced from multiple mills and consolidated at port facilities.

Before shipment, arrange independent inspection through SGS Brazil or Bureau Veritas. The inspector will verify:

  • Quantity loaded matches purchase order

  • Quality specifications meet contracted standards

  • Packaging and container conditions are acceptable

  • All required marks and labels are present

Inspection costs typically run $500-800 per container but provide essential protection against quality issues or quantity discrepancies.

Step 5: Shipping and Documentation (Week 6-8)

Your supplier or freight forwarder arranges ocean transport from Brazilian ports (usually Santos or Paranaguá) to your Philippine destination. Transit time averages 30-40 days depending on the shipping route and any transshipment points.

Required shipping documents include:

  • Bill of Lading (B/L)

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Certificate of Origin

  • Phytosanitary Certificate

  • Quality Certificate (SGS or mill certificate)

  • Insurance Certificate (if CIF terms)

These documents must be presented to your bank for LC payment release and are required for Philippine customs clearance.

Step 6: Philippine Customs Clearance (Week 9-10)

Upon arrival at your Philippine port, complete customs clearance through the Bureau of Customs (BOC) using a licensed customs broker. You'll need to submit:

  • Import Entry Declaration

  • Bill of Lading

  • Commercial Invoice and Packing List

  • Certificate of Origin

  • Sanitary/Phytosanitary Certificate

  • Payment proof for duties and taxes

Import Duties and Taxes:

Customs clearance typically takes 3-5 business days if all documentation is complete and accurate. Budget for potential storage fees if clearance delays occur.

Step 7: Delivery and Payment Release (Week 10)

After customs clearance, arrange transport from the port to your facility. For container loads, coordinate with trucking companies experienced in handling food-grade products.

Upon successful delivery and quality verification at your facility, your bank releases final payment to the supplier per LC terms. Maintain all documentation for accounting and future reference.

Total Timeline: First orders typically require 10-12 weeks from initial contact to delivery. Subsequent orders with established suppliers can be reduced to 8-10 weeks as relationships and processes streamline.


Cost Analysis & Pricing Guide for Philippine Importers

Understanding total landed costs helps Philippine businesses evaluate whether Brazilian sugar imports make financial sense compared to domestic sourcing or other import origins.

FOB Brazil Price Components

Base FOB pricing from Brazilian ports includes:

  • Raw material cost: Current market rate based on commodity exchanges

  • Processing and refining: Higher for ICUMSA 45 vs VHP

  • Packaging: Standard 50kg polypropylene bags or bulk container

  • Port handling: Loading and documentation fees

  • Supplier margin: Typically 3-6% for established exporters

Current FOB Ranges (November 2025):

  • ICUMSA 45: $390-$450/MT

  • ICUMSA 150: $375-$430/MT

  • VHP Raw: $340-$390/MT

Note: Commodity markets fluctuate daily. These ranges represent typical values but request current quotes for accuracy. Monitor ICE sugar futures for market trends.

Shipping Costs to Philippines

Ocean freight from Brazil to Philippine ports varies by:

  • Container size (20ft vs 40ft)

  • Destination port (Manila typically lowest)

  • Seasonal demand (higher during peak seasons)

  • Fuel surcharges

Typical Freight Costs:

  • Santos/Paranaguá to Manila: $2,800-$3,500 per 40ft container

  • Per MT shipping cost: $110-$140 (for 25-27 MT per container)

Additional Import Costs

Insurance: 0.5-1% of cargo value (required for CIF terms)

Letter of Credit Fees:

  • Opening fee: 0.15-0.25% of LC value

  • Confirmation fee: 0.10-0.15% if using confirmed LC

  • Amendment fees: $50-100 per amendment

Inspection Costs: $500-800 per container for SGS inspection

Philippine Import Duties & Taxes:

Customs Broker Fees: $200-400 per shipment

Local Transport: $100-300 per container (port to facility)

Total Landed Cost Example

For a 25 MT container of ICUMSA 45 sugar to Manila:

Cost Component

Amount

FOB Brazil ($420/MT × 25 MT)

$10,500

Ocean Freight

$3,200

Insurance (0.75%)

$103

LC Fees (0.25%)

$34

SGS Inspection

$650

CIF Manila

$14,487

Customs Duty (rate varies)*

$TBD

VAT (12%)

$TBD

Customs Broker

$300

Local Transport

$200

Total Landed Cost

~$15,500-16,000

Per MT Landed

$620-640/MT

Note: Verify current duty rates with Philippine Tariff Commission or customs broker as rates vary based on classification and current trade policy.

This example demonstrates that while FOB pricing appears attractive, total landed costs include significant additional expenses. Compare this complete landed cost against domestic Philippine sugar pricing to determine import viability for your operation.

📊 Cost-Saving Strategies:

  1. Order larger quantities: Freight costs per MT decrease with full container loads

  2. Negotiate annual contracts: Lock in pricing for multiple shipments

  3. Time purchases strategically: Brazil's harvest season (April-November) often offers better pricing

  4. Consolidate shipments: Combine with other importers to fill containers if possible

  5. Develop supplier relationships: Established buyers often receive preferential pricing and terms


Documentation & Customs Requirements for Philippine Sugar Imports

Proper documentation is critical for smooth customs clearance and avoiding costly delays or penalties. Philippine regulations for sugar imports require specific certificates and declarations.

Required Export Documents from Brazil

Your Brazilian supplier must provide:

Commercial Invoice

  • Must detail exact quantities, unit prices, total value

  • Should specify Incoterms (FOB, CIF, etc.)

  • Include supplier and buyer complete details

  • List HS code 1701 for cane sugar

Packing List

  • Container numbers and seal information

  • Net and gross weight per package

  • Total packages and configuration

  • Marking and labeling details

Bill of Lading (B/L)

  • Ocean carrier's cargo receipt

  • Specifies shipper, consignee, notify party

  • Details voyage, vessel, and port information

  • Required for cargo release

Certificate of Origin

  • Confirms sugar originated in Brazil

  • May qualify for preferential duty rates under trade agreements

  • Must be issued by authorized Brazilian chamber of commerce

Phytosanitary Certificate

Quality Certificate

  • SGS or equivalent independent laboratory analysis

  • Should detail all technical specifications

  • Include test date and laboratory reference number

  • Mill certificates acceptable for established relationships but third-party preferred


Philippine Import Documentation

Import Entry Declaration

Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) Requirements

The Philippines regulates sugar imports through the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA). Importers must:

  • Register with SRA if not already registered

  • Obtain appropriate import permits or clearances

  • Comply with quotas or requirements if applicable

  • Report import volumes as required

Note: Sugar import regulations in the Philippines can change based on domestic production and policy. Consult with SRA or your customs broker about current requirements before proceeding.

Bureau of Customs Clearance

  • Submit all import documents electronically through BOC system

  • Pay duties and taxes as assessed

  • Arrange physical inspection if selected

  • Obtain release authorization


Common Documentation Issues to Avoid

Discrepancies Between Documents: Ensure product descriptions, quantities, and values match exactly across all documents. Even minor inconsistencies can cause customs delays.

Incomplete Certificates: Missing signatures, dates, or required fields on certificates require amendments and cause delays. Review all certificates carefully before shipment.

Incorrect HS Classification: Sugar has specific HS codes based on type and processing. Misclassification can result in incorrect duty assessment or clearance delays.

Expired Certificates: Phytosanitary and quality certificates have validity periods. Ensure they remain valid through arrival and clearance dates.

Missing Translations: If any documents are in Portuguese, provide certified English translations for Philippine customs.

Working with Experienced Partners: Using a customs broker experienced in sugar imports significantly reduces documentation errors and clearance delays. Their expertise navigating Philippine regulations is invaluable, especially for first-time imports.


How to Find Reliable Brazilian Sugar Suppliers

The Brazilian sugar export market includes hundreds of companies ranging from established trading houses to mill-direct exporters to potential fraudsters. Selecting a legitimate, reliable supplier is crucial for successful imports.

Essential Supplier Credentials to Verify

CNPJ Registration Number

Every legitimate Brazilian business must have a CNPJ (Cadastro Nacional da Pessoa Jurídica) number—Brazil's federal tax identification. Request this number and verify it through Brazil's Receita Federal (Federal Revenue Service) website. This confirms the company legally exists and operates in Brazil.

Export License Verification

Brazilian sugar exporters need proper authorization from SECEX (Foreign Trade Secretariat). Legitimate exporters can provide evidence of their export registration and trading history.

Physical Office and Mill Connections

Be cautious of suppliers who only provide email contact or virtual office addresses. Established Brazilian sugar exporters maintain physical offices, typically in São Paulo, Santos, or sugar-producing regions like Ribeirão Preto. Request office addresses and verify through Google Maps business listings or local directories.

Bank References

Reputable suppliers maintain relationships with major Brazilian banks (Banco do Brasil, Itaú Unibanco, Bradesco, Santander Brasil). Request bank references and verify directly with the bank.


Red Flags That Signal Potential Problems

Prices Significantly Below Market: If quoted prices are 15-20% below established international commodity market rates without clear explanation, proceed with extreme caution. Brazilian sugar pricing correlates with international commodity exchanges—legitimate suppliers cannot offer pricing dramatically below these benchmarks.

Requests for Advance Payment Without LC: While established trading relationships may use alternative payment methods, first-time orders should always use Letter of Credit for protection. Suppliers insisting on wire transfer advance payment before shipment pose significant risk.

Unwillingness to Accept Third-Party Inspection: Legitimate suppliers welcome SGS or independent inspection as it protects both parties. Resistance to quality inspection is a major warning sign.

Vague or Inconsistent Communication: Professional exporters respond promptly with detailed information. Poor communication, vague answers to specific questions, or inconsistent representatives suggest problems.

No Verifiable Trade History: Request references from other international buyers, particularly Philippine companies if possible. Suppliers unable or unwilling to provide references may lack real export experience.


Questions to Ask Potential Suppliers

Before committing to any supplier, ask:

  1. What is your company's CNPJ number and export license information?

  2. How long have you been exporting sugar internationally?

  3. Which Philippine companies have you supplied previously? (Request references)

  4. Do you source directly from mills or through intermediaries?

  5. What quality control processes do you implement before shipment?

  6. Will you accept payment through confirmed Letter of Credit for first orders?

  7. Do you facilitate SGS or third-party inspection?

  8. What is your typical lead time from order to shipment?

  9. How do you handle quality disputes or claims?

  10. Can you provide recent SGS certificates from previous shipments?


Building Long-Term Supplier Relationships

Once you identify a reliable Brazilian supplier, invest in relationship development:

Start Small: Begin with a single container order to evaluate quality, communication, and reliability before placing larger orders.

Communicate Clearly: Provide detailed specifications and requirements upfront. Misunderstandings often arise from vague or incomplete requirements.

Pay Promptly: Honor payment terms and LC requirements. Reliable payment builds trust and may lead to better terms over time.

Provide Feedback: Share feedback on product quality, packaging, and service. Good suppliers value client input and work to improve.

Consider Volume Commitments: After establishing trust, negotiate annual supply agreements or volume commitments. These often unlock better pricing and priority service during high-demand periods.

Visit Brazil: If your import volumes justify it, visiting your supplier's facilities and meeting the team in person strengthens relationships significantly.


Frequently Asked Questions About Importing Brazilian Sugar to Philippines

What is the minimum order quantity for Brazilian sugar imports?

Most Brazilian sugar exporters work with minimum orders of 12,500 MT (one 20-foot container) for refined sugar. Some larger suppliers may require full 40-foot containers (approximately 25-27 MT). Container loads are most cost-effective due to shipping economies of scale.

For bulk shipments exceeding 5,000 MT, direct vessel charter becomes viable, potentially reducing per-ton costs further. Discuss your volume requirements with suppliers to determine the most economical approach.

How long does it take to receive sugar from Brazil?

Total timeline from order placement to delivery at your Philippine facility typically ranges from 10-12 weeks for first orders. This breaks down as:

  • Quotation and negotiation: 1-2 weeks

  • LC establishment: 1-2 weeks

  • Production and quality inspection: 2-3 weeks

  • Ocean transit: 4-6 weeks (30-40 days sailing time)

  • Customs clearance and delivery: 1 week

Established relationships with proven suppliers can reduce timelines to 8-10 weeks as processes become more efficient.

What payment methods do Brazilian suppliers accept?

For first-time transactions, Brazilian exporters typically require an irrevocable Letter of Credit confirmed by an international bank. This protects both parties—you receive quality assurance before payment releases, and the supplier has guaranteed payment upon meeting contract terms.

After establishing trading history, suppliers may offer alternative terms such as:

  • Documentary collection (D/P or D/A)

  • Telegraphic transfer (TT) with deposits

  • Open account terms (for well-established clients)

Always use LC for initial orders to minimize risk.

Is Brazilian sugar more expensive than Philippine domestic sugar?

Cost competitiveness depends on several factors including current domestic pricing, import duties, ocean freight rates, and currency exchange rates. Generally, Brazilian ICUMSA 45 landed costs in the Philippines range from $600-700 per MT including all duties and expenses.

Compare this against current Philippine domestic refined sugar prices from mills or trading centers. When domestic prices spike due to production shortfalls or weather events, imports become more attractive. Additionally, some manufacturers value Brazilian sugar's consistent quality for production standardization.

How do I verify Brazilian sugar quality before shipment?

Arrange third-party inspection through SGS, Bureau Veritas, or similar international inspection agencies. The inspector visits the loading port before shipment to verify:

  • Physical quality matches specifications

  • Quantity loaded is accurate

  • Packaging and container condition is acceptable

  • All markings and documentation are correct

Inspection costs $500-800 per container but provides essential protection. The inspection certificate becomes part of your LC documentation, ensuring payment only releases upon confirmed quality.

What happens if the sugar arrives damaged or doesn't meet specifications?

This scenario underscores the importance of proper insurance and inspection:

If using CIF terms with insurance: File a claim with the marine cargo insurer for physical damage during transit (moisture, contamination, etc.).

If quality doesn't match specifications: With pre-shipment SGS inspection showing conformity, you have grounds to dispute with the supplier. LC terms should include provisions for quality disputes and resolution mechanisms.

If supplier shipped off-spec product: Pre-shipment inspection protects you—payment wouldn't have released if inspection revealed non-conformity. This is why independent inspection is crucial.

Always thoroughly document any issues with photos, laboratory analysis, and detailed reports to support claims.


Can I import sugar from Brazil on a trial/sample basis first?


Full container minimum orders are standard in the sugar trade due to logistics and economics. However, some suppliers may send courier samples (500g-2kg) before you commit to a container order. Request specification sheets and recent SGS certificates to evaluate quality before ordering samples.

Some Philippine businesses partner with other importers or buyers to split a container for trial purposes, reducing individual risk while testing Brazilian sugar in their applications.

Do I need special licenses to import sugar into the Philippines?

Requirements depend on your intended use and current Philippine regulations. The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) oversees sugar imports and may require:

  • Importer registration with SRA

  • Import permits or allocations

  • Compliance with quota systems if in effect

Regulations change based on domestic production levels and government policy. Consult with a customs broker familiar with SRA requirements or contact SRA directly to understand current licensing needs before proceeding with imports.

Additionally, ensure your business has:

Conclusion: Making Brazilian Sugar Imports Work for Your Philippine Business

Brazilian sugar offers Philippine businesses a compelling value proposition: competitive pricing, consistent quality, reliable supply, and flexible ordering. Whether you're a food manufacturer requiring ICUMSA 45 refined white sugar or an industrial user sourcing raw sugar feedstock, Brazil's position as the world's leading sugar exporter provides market advantages.

Success in importing Brazilian sugar depends on thorough preparation, supplier verification, proper documentation, and understanding total landed costs. The process involves complexity, but businesses that invest time in establishing reliable supply relationships often achieve significant long-term benefits through cost savings and supply security.

Key Takeaways:

Verify suppliers thoroughly using CNPJ registration, export credentials, and references✓ Use Letters of Credit for first transactions to protect both parties✓ Always arrange SGS or independent inspection before shipment✓ Calculate complete landed costs including duties, freight, and fees✓ Work with experienced customs brokers familiar with sugar import regulations✓ Build long-term relationships with reliable suppliers for better terms over time

As Philippine sugar demand continues growing alongside food processing and beverage industries, establishing efficient Brazilian import channels positions your business for supply security and competitive advantage.

Ready to Start Importing Brazilian Sugar to the Philippines?

Brazilian Sugar Exporters connects Philippine businesses with verified Brazilian sugar suppliers and manages the complete import process from quotation to delivery at your facility.

Our services include:

✅ Competitive pricing directly from Brazilian mills

✅ Complete documentation and export handling

✅ Third-party SGS quality inspection coordination

✅ Letter of Credit facilitation with international banks

✅ Shipping and logistics management to Philippine ports

✅ Customs clearance support and compliance assistance

Get started today:

Questions about importing Brazilian sugar? Contact us or send your requirements to our team. We're here to help Philippine businesses access reliable, cost-effective Brazilian sugar supply.

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