DTI to scrutinize current steel, glass, cement testing policies

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will review current test procedures for steel, flat glass and cement entering the market to ensure a level playing field between local and foreign makers.

“The DTI engages its stakeholders in dialogues to review the implementing guidelines relative to the inspection, sampling and testing of steel bars, equal-leg angle bars, flat glass and cement.  As practiced before, we will continue to open our communication lines with the industry sector … and further promote transparency to ensure only safe products in the market,” Trade Undersecretary Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba said.

The Philippine Iron and Steel Institute (PISI) earlier pointed out the need for the government to amend certain department orders in terms of product testing for imported steel.

The current practice mandates product testing for three pieces of imported steel, regardless of the volume delivered. For locally produced steel, however, the mandate is more stringent as it requires product testing for every 20 tons.

Discussions, which began on Monday, also revolved around the industries’ request to impose stricter penalties on manufacturers and importers who fail to comply with the requirements of the Philippine National Standards.