The Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) has released its legislative agenda for the 20th Congress, proposing key policy, trade and governance reforms aimed at boosting the nation’s re-industrialization, fair trade practices and investment climate.
“Our comprehensive agenda presents a clear roadmap for the Philippines to achieve robust re-industrialization, ensuring fair competition and fostering an environment where our industries can thrive and compete globally,” FPI president Beth Lee said.
The group is calling for the effective implementation of the Tatak Pinoy Act, which includes proper funding and the establishment of a multi-sectoral Tatak Pinoy Council to guide and monitor industrial development.
FPI also advocates for the accelerated rollout of CREATE MORE, a program designed to ensure timely and fair access to incentives for both domestic and export-oriented manufacturers. This is seen as crucial for fostering a competitive business environment.
To ensure product quality and safety, the FPI is pushing for strict enforcement of Philippine National Standards (PNS), advocating for full compliance across all ports of entry and markets for both imported and local goods.
For sustainable growth, the FPI recommends advancing a green industrial policy, promoting low-carbon manufacturing, clean technology production and access to transition financing.
The federation urges the implementation of a Local Preference Procurement Law, which would mandate government procurement of locally manufactured, PNS-compliant products, particularly in vital sectors such as infrastructure, construction materials, and essential public goods.
The FPI is also pushing for aggressive reforms to combat illicit trade, including the enactment of a comprehensive Anti-Smuggling Law. They propose the creation of a Public-Private Task Force reporting directly to the President, alongside port digitization and advanced customs profiling capabilities.
The group also advocates for strengthening trade remedy mechanisms with faster implementation and provisional measures.
This includes adopting a balanced and strategic tariff policy through periodic reviews and impact assessments for sensitive sectors, and institutionalizing a Trade and Industry Defense System for real-time monitoring and swift responses to import surges and unfair foreign competition.
Among the crucial governance reforms is the establishment of an Independent Investment Ombudsman. This office would be dedicated to resolving unjustified delays, harassment, and regulatory inconsistencies faced by investors, coordinating directly with key government agencies such as the Department of Trade and Industry, Fiscal Incentives Review Board, Board of Investment, Department of Finance and local government units (LGUs).
Be the first to comment