EU, PCCI commit to help PH firms

The delegation of the European Union to the Philippines and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry have joined hands to help local export firms take advantage of priority and tariff-free access to the world’s largest foreign market.

Among those expected to benefit from assistance programs are companies whose products can be exported duty free under the European Union’s new generalized scheme of preferences or GSP+.

“This special opportunity to market to the EU will bring huge and direct benefits to Philippine companies, particularly small and medium enterprises involved in numerous commodities such as processed and preserved fruits, juices, vegetable oils and fats, textile and footwear,” PCCI president Alfredo M. Yao said in a statement.

Effective for 10 years starting December 2014, the granting of a GSP+ status to the Philippines enables local firms to export to Europe over 6,200 products at zero duty.

PCCI said this special incentive arrangement granted by the EU would be discussed in a forum this week, with special focus on the features of GSP+ and on tapping so-called “Geographical Indications” (GIs) to access the EU market.

GIs are distinctive marks used to identify a product originating from a specific location.

Products registered under the GI scheme include Dagupan Bangus, Tayabas Lambanog, Davao Pomelo, Batangas Kapeng Barako, Kalinga Highland Coffee, Guimaras Mango, Davao Cacao and Cebu Dried Mango.

“Geographical Indications are invaluable. They do not only promote the good itself or its geographical origin, but most importantly, the culture it represents. There are numerous potential GIs in the Philippines such as the Bicol Pili Nut, Guimaras Mangoes, and the Cotabato T’Nalak Weaving,” added PCCI Intellectual Property chair Jesus B. Varela.