The Philippines has achieved a major milestone with the grand launch of the ATA Carnet system—a “passport for goods” facilitating the temporary importation of products without customs duties or taxes. Officially launched on July 15, 2024, at the Manila Hotel, this international customs document is set to transform how Philippine businesses engage in global trade.
Key Benefits:
Seamless Trade: The ATA Carnet simplifies participation in trade shows, exhibitions, and international events by eliminating the need for multiple customs declarations.
Cost Efficiency: Businesses can save on import duties and taxes, making international operations more affordable.
Enhanced Global Competitiveness: The system supports the Philippines’ export-led growth strategy and enhances its appeal as a host for global events.
Attractive Investment Destination: By streamlining trade processes, the ATA Carnet system also boosts the Philippines’ attractiveness as an investment destination, encouraging more foreign businesses to consider the country for their international ventures.
Impact on the Economy:
Tourism and Job Creation: By attracting international events, the ATA Carnet system is expected to boost tourism and create employment opportunities.
Economic Development: The system contributes to overall economic growth, positioning the Philippines as a more integrated player in the global market.
Implementation and Support:
Collaborative Effort: The launch is the result of collaboration between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Finance, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), and the Export Development Council (EDC).
Capacity Building: The EDC will support capacity-building and advocacy initiatives to ensure businesses are equipped to leverage the ATA Carnet system effectively.
BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio noted the extensive revisions and effort required to enhance the system, while PCCI President Nina Mangio highlighted its alignment with the Philippine Export Development Plan.
The ATA Carnet system marks a significant step toward greater economic integration and trade facilitation for the Philippines. Exporters should take full advantage of this new tool to streamline their international operations, boost their global presence, and attract investment. FAMD
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.
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.