Inasmuch as the Philippines would want to negotiate lowering the 17 percent tariff imposed by the United States on all US-bound exports, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque said that finally, a definite date has been set for her and Special Assistant to the President for Economic and Investment Affairs Secretary Frederick Go to meet with the US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

Roque informed reporters during the opening of Franchise Asia Philippines 2025 International Expo and Conference at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City that the two officials will be in the US from 29 April to 2 May and will talk with Greer during that time.

She said their mission on the forthcoming trip is to lower the tariffs the US imposes on the Philippines.

Bring down the tariff

“Our goal in the meeting is to bring down the tariff,” said Roque, stressing that bringing down the tariffs is not just what the government wants, but the clamor of manufacturers and exporters she met with last week.

“We had a consultation with the manufacturers, with the exporters, and also with the importers. And we want to get a consensus also, so that when we decide, it is not based on what we think but on consultations with the different industries,” Roque said.

The consultations last week 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 were also focused on how the government and the private sector can work together to highlight the Philippines as a reliable trading partner amid uncertainties in international trade.

Money in franchising

Meanwhile, Roque, in her speech at the SMX Convention Center, said she believes in franchising as the only way to move forward, especially for those who are already in the sunset industry.

“So definitely, the Department of Trade and Industry will push for franchising, and the Philippine Franchising Association will be the lead in this. We look forward to really working closely together on a more aggressive basis this time,” she told conference attendees.

“At the DTI, we recognize franchising as a powerful engine for economic development. It is a proven pathway for micro, small and medium enterprises to earn higher profits and reach greater heights. Franchising offers aspiring entrepreneurs established business models, brand recognition and ongoing support. It creates countless jobs and fosters entrepreneurial spirit across the nation,” she emphasized.