Trade Red Flags: USTR Puts PH Barriers Under the Spotlight

The United States Trade Representative has again included the Philippines in its annual report on markets with barriers that make it harder for American goods and services to compete. In plain terms, Washington is saying may mga polisiya rito that still raise costs and limit access for foreign exporters.

According to the report, the concerns go beyond just one issue. It cited high tariffs under the country’s minimum access volume system, foreign ownership limits in key industries, and policy shifts that created uncertainty for exporters, especially in agriculture. Changes involving pork allocations and the handling of rice tariffs were among the points raised.

The USTR also called out trade obstacles involving automobiles, motorcycles, digital services, and government procurement. It said American firms still face a tough time bidding for some public projects, particularly in sectors like health and defense, despite reforms that supposedly opened space for fairer competition.

Another major issue was corruption and weak enforcement. The report mentioned long-running complaints about customs irregularities, bribery allegations, and a lack of transparency in judicial and regulatory processes. It also flagged online piracy, counterfeit goods, and slow prosecution of intellectual property cases as continuing headaches.

The trade data showed why this matters. Philippine goods exports to the US reportedly rose sharply last year, while US exports to the Philippines slipped, widening the American trade deficit. That means pressure could build for Manila to explain or adjust some rules if it wants smoother trade ties with one of its biggest markets.

Source: The Manila Times