2 weeks Ago By Raffy Ayeng
Economic and Investment Affairs Secretary Frederick Go said he and Trade Secretary Cristina Roque are positive about the results of the upcoming meeting with United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer sometime this month. Go earlier said that the meeting with Greer will further strengthen the bilateral trade partnership between the Philippines and the US, amidst the recently imposed 17 percent US Reciprocal Tariffs, which are now halted for 90 days. “We are confident that, through our strong economic and diplomatic ties, we can find arrangements that are mutually advantageous,” SAPIEA Go remarked.
Secretary Roque echoed the sentiment, noting that “the consultative process has enhanced mutual understanding and alignment on shared goals.” However, the Trade Department did not divulge the exact date the meeting will take place. The statements came after the two officials jointly convened stakeholder consultations with key export leaders in the country on Wednesday to gather insights and formulate strategic measures for their upcoming meeting with USTR Greer.
The consultations brought together key stakeholders from various export sectors, including producers, manufacturers, consolidators, industry associations, and government officials. Participants exchanged views and insights on the current market dynamics in the US across various industries. The meeting elucidated the strategic opportunities and challenges that the current situation presents.
Further, the discussions focused on how the government and the private sector can work together in highlighting the Philippines as a reliable and trusted trading partner amidst uncertainties in international trade. Roque also emphasized that the DTI reaffirms its commitment to leading open dialogue and robust engagements with key stakeholders. “The consultation is just one part of the consultations that the Department is undertaking i.
e. with inter-agency partners, importers, agriculture stakeholders and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that views and interests of various sectors are taken into consideration as the government works to secure the best possible outcomes for the Philippines in its trade relations with the US,” she said..
