DTI secures key trade deals during ASEAN meeting

CEBU, Philippines — The Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently led the 9th Meeting of the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) Upgrade Negotiation Working Group on Standards, Technical Regulations, and Conformity Assessment Procedures (WG STRACAP).

The meeting took place in Manila and online on October 15-16, bringing together representatives from ASEAN countries.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque highlighted the Philippines’ commitment to regional cooperation. She said their involvement in ATIGA negotiations supports a more unified and prosperous ASEAN. Roque noted that improving trade processes will help businesses access markets more easily and offer better products to consumers.

The meeting was chaired by Neil P. Catajay, Director of the DTI-Bureau of Philippine Standards. Delegates from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam participated. They discussed key topics such as how to assess product quality and technical rules in the ATIGA STRACAP Chapter.

A major outcome was the agreement from all ASEAN member states to strengthen cooperation and make trade smoother. Catajay reported positive progress in negotiating standards and regulations, showing ASEAN’s commitment to addressing trade challenges.

DTI Assistant Secretary Agaton Teodoro O. Uvero praised the DTI-BPS team for effectively leading the meeting. He stressed the importance of fair trade practices and aligning with international standards.

This year, the ATIGA WG STRACAP has held three meetings focused on various trade issues. The recent meeting was part of the 12th Meeting of the ATIGA Upgrade Negotiation Trade Negotiating Committee, which took place from October 11 to 17 in Manila.