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.
Under the MOU, DTI and PHILEXPORT will collaborate on key initiatives such as conduct of a trade education and advocacy (TEA) campaign which includes regular dialogues and consultations on FTAs, Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs), Economic Partnership Agreement (EPAs) and other similar accords; carry out capacity-building activities and mentorship programs for exporters; and provide networking and linkage opportunities for businesses and industry associations. Continue reading DTI and PHILEXPORT collaborates to promote Free Trade Agreement 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.
The Export Development Council (EDC) has bolstered its collaboration with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and its consultative bodies, the Central Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC) and BOC – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) CICAC, to streamline customs processes and enhance partnerships between the government and private stakeholders. CICAC acts as a bridge between the BOC and the business-industrial sector, addressing customs and industry-related issues, promoting mutual understanding, and strengthening relationships.