Marcos Cabinet confident in boosting Philippines-US trade ties

Despite temporarily suspended tariffs, members of the Marcos Cabinet expressed confidence in strengthening trade relations between Manila and Washington ahead of an upcoming high-level meeting scheduled for the first week of May.

Frederick Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (SAPIEA), said that through strong economic and diplomatic ties, mutually advantageous arrangements can be found during the meetings with US counterparts.

Go and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque convened consultations with key stakeholders to craft strategic measures to boost bilateral trade with the US, focusing on addressing concerns related to potential tariff impacts.

These meetings involved leaders from the export sector, including producers, manufacturers, consolidators, industry associations, and government officials, who provided insights on current market dynamics in the US.

The discussions focused on how the government and private sector can collaborate to present the Philippines as a reliable trading partner, enhancing mutual understanding and alignment on shared goals.

Roque highlighted the need for open dialogue with key stakeholders to consider various sectors' views and interests while securing ideal outcomes for trade with the US.

Engaging with trade partners like Japan and China will help the country navigate shifting trade landscapes amid evolving US tariff policies.