TINPLATE (TP), HOT ROLLED (HR) AND/OR COLD ROLLED (CR) STEEL IMPORTATION INTO THE PHILIPPINES FROM JAPAN



In the process of trade liberalization, Philippines had entered various agreements with different countries enabling goods and services entitled some privileges, eliminating barriers and restrictions with the end view of encouraging investments and job acceleration.

Philippines' international commitments

Aside from World Trade Organization (WTO), Association of Southeast East Asian Nation (ASEAN), Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), AANZFTA, Philippines also tied up with Japan, as they launched the "Japan Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA)" where an importation of "Tin Plate, HR/CR Steel" is part of it.

Through this agreement importation of TP, HR/CR Steel into the country (Philippines) will enjoy the zero rate of duty (ROD 0%) under Tariff Rate Quota Scheme (In Quota), provided, that it complies with certificate of origin (criteria of rules of origin), accreditation and certificate of authority to import (CAI) from Bureau of Import Services (BIS).

Qualified importer

Before an importer become qualified for the issuance of certificate of authority to import (CAI), they must undergo first an Accreditation (DTI - BIS), with the requirements listed below, but not limited to:
  • Letter of intent
  • Prescribed application form
  • Products being manufactured
  • Annual operating data (for the past immediately 3 years/actual year) as to required volume of TP, HR/CR Steel, Production volume, Sales, Value, Purchases (local/imported), Inventory prior to application.
  • SEC/DTI certificate
  • ICARE (form Bureau of Customs)
  • BPS (if, producing finished products)
  • Latest audited financial statement
  • Secretary's certificate
  • Affidavit of undertaking
Provided, that the requirements for CAI are the following, but not limited to:
  • Letter of approval (accreditation)
  • Affidavit of intent (indicating the usage)
  • Sales contract
  • Proforma invoice
  • Purchase order
Provided further,  that the applicable Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) to which the TP, HR/CR steel being imported conform to (as specified by the importer), indicated in the sales contract/proforma invoice, purchase order or other like documents.

Finally, upon compliance with all other requirements, upon further assistance by any contact Customs Broker, necessary for proper declaration and procedure, shipment be entered and cleared before the Bureau of Customs (BOC), upon payment of corresponding fees and charges.

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[Manila, Philippines | Updated: November 2013]