The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has welcomed the endorsement of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) regarding a new policy that streamlines importer accreditation.
Under the newly implemented Customs Administrative Order (CAO), the validity of importer accreditation has been extended to three years, while the reform also reduces the total fees associated with the accreditation process.
The ECCP commended the Department of Finance and the BOC for the move, noting that it enhances trade facilitation and strengthens the Philippine investment climate. By reducing renewal frequency and costs, the ECCP stated that businesses can “focus more on productivity and growth.”
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized that the policy aims to balance ease of business with the agency’s regulatory duties.
“The ECCP’s feedback is an important input as we continue to refine our processes. Our objective is to maintain a predictable and business friendly customs environment that facilitates legitimate trade while upholding revenue collection and border protection mandates,” Nepomuceno said.
He added that the partnership between the government and the private sector is vital.
“The ECCP’s endorsement further underscores the value of sustained public private sector collaboration in shaping policies that promote trade facilitation and investor confidence.”
The BOC noted that the reform is part of a broader government effort to promote the ease of doing business and rationalize regulations.
According to the bureau, the policy provides the trading community with increased operational certainty and encourages better compliance.