Exporters belonging to the Philippine Exporters Confederation (PHILEXPORT), the country’s largest exporters’ organization, said they are relieved and appreciative that President Marcos took on the responsibility and accountability of serving as the chief negotiator in the meeting with U.S. President Trump.
“While the results may not be as much as we want to in terms of tariff reduction, it is a good, reassuring and comforting signal of his (Marcos) concern for the export industry and economy,” PHILEXPORT President Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said in a statement.
Exporters also welcomed Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and Secretary Frederick Go’s clarifications on the many doubts and issues in their negotiations, including the fact that 19 percent is still lower and the maximum level we can expect already.
“We agree that the sectors that were opened to the U.S. are not likely to harm us because we are not producers of such products. This is even a good move for consumers and businesses importing U.S. technology and other inputs,” said PHILEXPORT.
The PHP3-B U.S. aid for Philippine energy, maritime, and economic growth, the first U.S. foreign assistance to any country in this term, also came as a critical intervention which PhilExport said can be used to help lessen the possible negative impacts that the 19 percent tariff may bring to the affected sectors.
“It likewise opened doors for continuing discussions, negotiations and engagement with our US counterparts particularly for a free trade agreement with the U.S. and other future concessions for our industry and agriculture sectors,” the statement concluded.
