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
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.
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. 
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. 
ARISE Plus Philippines led the workshop on optimizing the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program for Bureau of Customs Readiness, focusing on advanced supply chain and logistics principles to raise awareness among economic operators.
To provide convenience and excellent service to PH exporters, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) features the online issuance of the Travel Tax Exemptio Certificate (TEC). There is no change in the application procedures; exporters shall file their application for travel tax exemption at the authorized recommending agencies: CITEM, DTI-EMB, BITR, and PHILEXPORT for endorsement to EDC, who in turn approves or disapprove the endorsement to TIEZA to be granted TEC. 
During the Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) 122nd Founding Anniversary, the Export Development Council (EDC) showcased its commitment to collaboration as Deputy Executive Director Elsa De La Paz – Valenzuela represented the EDC within the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC).
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has recently implemented CAO 01-2024, showcasing significant reduction in fees for customs bonded warehouses (CBW), with a specific focus on supporting Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) while also streamlining regulatory processes.
The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) gears up to implement Green Lanes for Strategic Investments under Executive Order (EO) 18, series of 2023. Said EO defines those that are aligned with the Philippine Development Plan or any equivalent national development plan and can be characterized by significant capital or investment in the country as a strategic investment.