PCCI hails hold-off of papers, fees for sugar stand-ins
IMPORTERS VS SUGAR PRODUCERS

PCCI hails hold-off of papers, fees for sugar stand-ins

/ 02:06 AM February 05, 2025

MANILA, Philippines — The country’s largest business organization on Tuesday welcomed the deferment on the implementation of the Sugar Regulatory Administration’s (SRA) order which requires firms to secure clearances and pay fees for importing sugar alternatives.

“We are glad that the Sugar Regulatory Administration has listened to and considered valid the concerns of the sugar manufacturers, and acted upon immediately on the postponement of the order’s implementation,” Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) president Enunina Mangio said in a statement.

Mangio said that while the intention of SRA’s Sugar Order No. 6—which outlines the guidelines on importing certain “sugars” and sugar confectionery—is valid, it should not be to the detriment of other quarters in the industry that are legitimately doing business.

Article continues after this advertisement

READ: Regulator holds off import permits, fees for sugar stand-ins

FEATURED STORIES

The PCCI noted that food and beverage manufacturers, industry associations and chambers of commerce called on the SRA to conduct proper consultation with stakeholders and to conduct a regulatory impact assessment of the measure.

The business group added that new regulatory measures should also be aligned with the regulations of the Anti-Red Tape Authority’s Ease of Doing Business for “simplified, efficient and transparent governance.”

Article continues after this advertisement

SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona announced on Thursday last week the postponement of the measure’s implementation, responding to concerns raised by the industries that would be adversely affected.

Article continues after this advertisement

According to the SRA, two key issues were identified during the consultation process—processing delays and the associated costs of complying with the order.

The SRA issued the order as a response to “grave concerns” raised by local sugar producers over the purported unregulated importation of certain sugars and sweeteners into the country. INQ

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

TAGS: Business, sugar, Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA)

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2025 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.