DTI raises concern about 20% US tariff on Philippine exports

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque will be part of a Philippine delegation to Washington DC, to seek further discussion on tariffs next week . DTI PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry on Thursday expressed concern that the United States decided to impose a 20-percent tariff on imports from the Philippines despite efforts and “constant engagements” from Manila.

The DTI said it has receipt communication about this decision as US President Trump informed President Marcos of the new tariff that takes effect on Aug. 1, in a letter issued July 9.

This was higher than the original 17-percent reciprocal tariff announced in April during the so-called “Liberation Day.”

“The fact remains, however, that the 20-percent rate is the second-lowest among reciprocal tariffs the US has imposed on countries in the region,” the DTI said. 

READ: Philippine delegation heads to US to negotiate tariffs

The trade department added that the Philippines remained committed to continuing negotiations “in good faith to pursue a better and more comprehensive bilateral trade agreement.” 

The DTI added that, while it recognized the concerns of the United States regarding trade imbalances, global supply chains are deeply interconnected, and unilateral trade impositions will have adverse effects to the global economy. 

DTI pushes for ‘constructive engagement’ with Washington

“Thus, we believe in the need for constructive engagement to address trade issues. The DTI, in consultation with other government agencies, will continue to actively engage with our US counterparts toward a balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship,” the agency added. 

Considering this, a delegation from the Philippines led by Frederick Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs and chair of the Economic Development Committee, is headed for Washington D.C. next week to negotiate a better tariff deal with the United States.

READ: Philippine exports to America face 20% Trump tariff

Go will be accompanied by Trade Secretary Cristina Roque and Ceferino Rodolfo, undersecretary at the DTI and managing head of the Board of Investments.

“In light of this development, the Philippines remains steadfast in advancing key economic reforms to sustain a competitive and investor- friendly business environment, while broadening its trade partnerships to create more market opportunities,” the DTI said.