BOC seeks to ease export hurdles for Filipino businesses

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is seeking to simplify export procedures and help Filipino businesses overcome regulatory and customs hurdles in accessing international markets.

The bureau discussed customs processes, free trade agreements, and government support programs during its first-ever Export Summit held on Oct. 26 and 27, according to a BOC statement on Sunday.

Organized in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA), the summit sought to address challenges faced by local businesses in understanding export regulations, complying with requirements, and taking advantage of existing trade agreements.

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According to Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, the agency wanted to make exporting easier and more predictable so Filipino businesses could focus on expanding their operations and reaching more international markets.

“The quality of Filipino products is already there. What we need are more opportunities to bring them to more markets,” Nepomuceno said.

“Our job at the Bureau of Customs is to make the process simpler and more orderly so our exporters can focus on growing their businesses,” he added.

Discussions during the two-day summit covered customs procedures, developments involving the Asean Single Window (ASW), trade agreements, export-related programs and regulatory requirements.

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The event also allowed exporters to raise concerns directly with government representatives and exchange insights with other industry players.

Port Operations Service Director Melon Carlo Santiago said government agencies must remain responsive to exporters’ concerns and ensure that policies and services keep pace with the industry’s needs.

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For BOC Export Coordination Division Chief Kayrel Buenafe, the initiative was also intended to strengthen trust between the government and the private sector.

“Every shipment leaving our ports carries more than goods. It carries the hard work of our producers, the aspirations of our workers, and the promise of a stronger Philippine economy,” Buenafe said.

The BOC said the summit was part of its continuing efforts to expand the country’s export footprint and improve the competitiveness of Philippine products in the global market.

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The initiative is also in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to facilitate trade and improve the country’s competitiveness. / mcm