Phl to Continue Trade Discussions With US

As Trump Moves Start of New Tariffs

- By Louella Desiderio and Marco Luis Beech

The Philippines will continue to engage with the United States and provide support to exporters, following the delay in the start of the imposition of the new reciprocal tariffs to Aug. 7 from Aug. 1.

"On the part of the Philippine government, we will continue with our talks with the US and hopefully we can come up with a mutually beneficial deal the soonest possible time," Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said in a Viber message yesterday.

For exports coming from the Philippines, the new tariff is at 19 percent, lower than the 20 percent announced last month, but higher than the 17 percent unleashed in April.

At present, Philippine goods entering the US are slapped a 10-percent levy as US President Donald Trump earlier declared a pause on tariffs while negotiations with trade partners are taking place.

Roque said the government is ready to provide assistance to exporters who will be affected by the new US tariff.

"We will continue to expand our trade network to provide more business opportunities and enhanced market access for our exporters," she said.