By Victoria “NIKE” De Dios
Having been at the forefront in seeking government’s support to extend the reduced tariffs on imported meats to provide a win-win solution in the food security and inflation, the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) is grateful for the approval of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. upon the recommendation of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) to extend lower tariff on imported meats in 2023 which is part of the chamber’s wishlist for 2023.
Speaking to THEPHILBIZNEWS, Chris Nelson, British Chamber of Commerce Philippines Executive Director and Trustee said, “We are very grateful for this swift and decisive action of President Marcos. As you know very well, the British Chamber has been batting for the lowering of the tarrif of import duties on meat coming from the United Kingdom (UK) as this would result to a win-win solution for both countries.”
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“The chamber has been endeavoring to help in addressing the shortage of supply of local meats in the Philippines. This is the reason why we invited some top suppliers of meat from the UK and held two events in partnership with the UK’s Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. This is to ensure that we don’t just bring in meats from the UK but also provides business opportunities between the two countries,” Nelson added.
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Meanwhile, Nelson brandishes the chamber’s accomplishments for 2022 and will continue its programs to enhance business and trade relationship of UK and the Philippines.
With its over 300 members in the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines, Nelson noted that the strong membership retention and acquisition efforts, and active participation of its members through event and social media
campaigns cement the strong relationship of all members.
Nelson said he will continue to promote trade and investment opportunities through Trade Mission Events, Business Education Events, Advocacy with International Networks and UK Chambers and strong partnership with the media will be carried on for 2023. At the same time will also continue to support all the necessary economic reform programs of the administration just like in the past.
The British Chamber also gave the summary of its wishlist for 2023 such as improve the ease of doing business, promote and make the Philippines an
investment destination, boost infrastructure developments and digitalization, and the ratification of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
“All of us in the chamber look forward to allowing more investments flow through various sectors, unlock new opportunities for UK companies, and make the Philippines the gateway to Southeast Asia,” Nelson said.
“We aim to increase direct foreign trade investments in the Philippines, lobby more trade bills, and have continued support from the media which would help to the recovery of the Philippine economy,” Nelson concluded.