Oct 2, 2012

Philippines - Self-Certification Helps ASEAN SMEs

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Economic Integration

The Philippines pushed for increased market access through self-certification scheme for exporters to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the ASEAN region benefit from the economic integration of the region.

This was stressed by Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory L. Domingo at the recently-concluded 44th ASEAN Economic Ministers (AEM) and Related Meetings in Cambodia.

The self-certification project will allow more SMEs to utilize the ASEAN trade agreements particularly the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA).

“The self-certification scheme benefits exporters as it eliminates financial costs and expedites the processes in obtaining a Certificate of Origin (CO) for the products our SMEs export,” said DTI undersecretary Adrian S. Cristobal Jr.

Self-certification refers to a scheme being pushed by the Philippines in ASEAN for SME exporters. Said scheme requires a declaration from a certified exporter that a product meets the rules of origin under the FTA, eliminating the need to secure a CO Form from the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

Under the self-certification scheme, intra-ASEAN trade is facilitated better by ensuring smoother clearance of goods as issues relating to verification of COs is done away with.

There is also greater convenience as there is no need to obtain a CO Form from issuing authorities, more cost savings in relation to administrative charges for CO application and improved timelines as weekend shipments are no longer held back by the issuing authorities since CO is no longer required.

The Philippines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Indonesia and Lao for the implementation of the 2nd pilot project on self-certification to help SMEs maximize free trade agreements.

The pilot project provides opportunity for the Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) as the implementing agency to learn how to implement the system, and build confidence in the system, particularly on risk management. (BCM)



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