The Department of Finance said the full implementation of an international merchandise passport will boost the global visibility of Filipino products and expand market access for local businesses.
Known as the ATA Carnet, this international customs document functions as a “passport for goods,” streamlining customs clearance across multiple countries without incurring duties or taxes. Accepted by a network of 81 customs administrations worldwide, the ATA Carnet is a cornerstone of the DOF’s efforts to improve the Philippines’ business climate.
“With this system, we now offer them [Filipino businesses] cost-effective access to international trade exhibitions that would have otherwise been prohibitive for them to attend in the past,” DOF Revenue Operations Group (ROG) Undersecretary Charlito Martin Mendoza said.
“This will increase export and import activities, enhance our trade balance, drive job creation and attract foreign investments,” he said.
Almost every industry with temporary importation can benefit from the use of ATA Carnets such as commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for display at exhibitions, fairs and meetings, Mendoza said.
Foreign market access will be particularly beneficial to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), allowing them to join trade shows and sell their products on the spot.
Apart from reducing the costs of exporting goods, the ATA Carnet promotes trade efficiency as it simplifies customs procedures through a single document for all customs transactions, and makes arrangements for entry to many countries in advance at a predetermined cost.
The merchandise passport will also help facilitate the re-entry of the product to any contracting country since it eliminates the need to register goods with the contracting country at the time of departure.
This system ensures that the Bureau of Customs (BOC) can collect duties and taxes if goods are not re-exported within the stipulated time frame.
“We will leverage technology to streamline customs processes, enhance tracking and compliance and ensure its seamless integration,” Mendoza said.
