Author Archives: edcinforms

Legal Framework ratified to implement ASEAN Single Window

Trade Policy & Procedures Simplification No Comments

The Philippines has ratified the Protocol on the Legal Framework (PLF) to implement the ASEAN Single Window (ASW). The instrument of ratification was signed by the President on 28 June 2017. The ASW is an electronic gateway that provides seamless and simplified information among ASEAN member states.

This means that the Philippines can now electronically receive and send certificates of origin under the ASEAN Trade in Goods agreement (ATIGA Form D), the document needed to avail of the preferential tariff agreement.

Other cross-border documents will also be exchanged under the ASW Gateway in the future. With this, it will facilitate trade between the Philippine and ASEAN neighbors.

Eventually, the ASW connection will help the Philippines to increase its competitiveness in terms of ease of doing business (EODB), and will increase the transparency of cargo processing by providing more accurate, timely, and cost-efficient exchange of information.- Asnia R. Bayabao & Aira Angel S. Baleos

Exporters support establishment of TradeNet

Trade Policy & Procedures Simplification No Comments

The export sector fully supports the establishment of the TradeNet which aims to harmonize government trade processes and gradually reduce red-tape in the paperless processing of import and export permits.

The TradeNet will serve as an automated permit, licensing and clearance system integrated into one platform for 66 Trade Regulatory Government Agencies (TRGAs) and 10 economic zones. It will cover the functions of the National Single Window (NSW). Continue reading → Exporters support establishment of TradeNet

DILG orders the Suspension of LGU Fees and Taxes

PEDP No Comments

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), in its Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2017-23 mandates the Suspension of Local Government Unit (LGU) Imposition and Collection of Illegal Fees and Taxes.

Guidelines on the said MC is in pursuant to Section 133 (e) of the Local Government Code directing the LGUs to refrain from enforcing any existing ordinance authorizing the levy of fees and taxes on inter-province transport of goods, regulatory fees from passengers in local ports, and other additional taxes, fees or charges in any form upon transporting goods and passengers.The MC issued by the DILG supports the Strategy 2: Remove unnecessary impediments to the free flow of goods and services under the Philippine Export Development Plan 2015-2017.- Piercy Kieth Cezar

PNB launches new credit facility for SMES

Financing No Comments

The Philippine National Bank (PNB), one of the country’s largest private local commercial banks, launched the Small Enterprise Virtual Card for Small Enterprises last 06 March 2017. This new loan facility is fully operational starting 25 March 2017. It is PNB’s financing innovation to SMEs who are looking for additional capital for their business expansion.

Continue reading → PNB launches new credit facility for SMES