PHILEXPORT’s recent General Membership Meeting (GMM) centered on “Building MSME Capacities for Increased Competitiveness.” Dr. Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis, Jr. delivered a compelling President’s Report, highlighting critical areas for growth based on recommendations from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS). The focus was on enhancing human capital, advancing trade and industry, and utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly. Dr. Ortiz-Luis called for a stronger education and human resource development ecosystem.
Key Contributions and Insights: Continue reading PHILEXPORT’s 3rd Quarter GMM: Driving MSME Competitiveness
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PHILEXPORT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the Export Development Council Meeting on 11 June 2024 to formalize the partnership between the two organizations in promoting the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) benefits.
Merchandise exports surged by 26.4% year-on-year to reach $6.22 billion in April 2024, according to the latest data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). This represents a strong recovery in the export sector after a 7.3% decline in March 2024.
The first successful use of the ATA Carnet for temporary admission took place in Switzerland on October 20, 2019, with subsequent operations following in Belgium, China, and Russia. During the pilot phase, participation was limited to selected Customs offices in these four countries. The tests verified that the eATA system functions effectively and that the ICC’s digital tools meet expectations. To support the adoption of eATA Carnets by national Customs agencies, the WCO ATA/Istanbul Administrative Committee approved a standardized notification template on November 16, 2020.
Highlights of the Interagency Strategic Planning for the Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF) – National Coordinating Council (NCC)
The ATA Carnet, also known as the “Passport of Goods,” is finally slated for implementation on 15 July 2024. This long-awaited development will allow exporters to enjoy tax-free and streamlined temporary admission of goods into member countries. 
Exporters attended a session on the European Union’s (EU) new Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which charges for carbon emissions in the production of goods entering the EU, while also encouraging cleaner industrial production in non-EU countries.
The Philippines’ latest gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 5.7% in the first quarter of 2024, led by gains in financial and insurance, wholesale and retail trade, and manufacturing sectors. The services sector rose by 6.9%, industry and agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors by 5.1% and 0.4%, respectively.
On May 22, 2024, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual along with Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, the conceptualizer and author of the Act and other notable signatories signed the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for Republic Act No. 11981, also known as the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act. This legislation aims to support and promote Filipino-made products and services globally.