Manila: Industry groups have asked the government to exclude sugar from negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) with Chile, saying there is no export interest and pointing to non-tariff barriers in the South American country, reports Philstar Global.
During the Tariff Commission’s consultation on the Philippines-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), the Philippine Sugar Millers Association (PSMA) urged officials to leave sugar out of the talks.
“The Philippine Sugar Millers request the Department of Trade and Industry, the Tariff Commission, and the Department of Agriculture to exclude sugar from the FTA,” the group said.
The PSMA explained that exporting sugar to Chile is not feasible due to high shipping costs, which would make Philippine sugar uncompetitive even under the CEPA. It also cited Chile’s strict rules on sugar and other farm products.
The Confederation of Sugar Producers Association (CONFED) echoed the call for sugar’s exclusion in market access discussions. However, the group supported including sugar in research and development (R&D) cooperation.
Rosemarie Gumera of CONFED said the industry could benefit from technology sharing. “We hope to be part of agricultural R&D cooperation with Chile, especially for the exchange of crop varieties,” she said.
Meanwhile, DTI Bureau of International Trade Relations director Lyn Aquia said the government is working to secure better terms for Philippine exports to Chile.
“We are asking for lower tariffs and fewer restrictions on important food products so consumers in both countries can have steady and affordable supplies,” she said.
