The self-certification project will allow more SMEs to utilize the ASEAN trade agreements particularly the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA). “The self-certification scheme benefits exporters as it eliminates financial costs and expedites the processes in obtaining a Certificate of Origin (CO) for the products our SMEs export,” said DTI undersecretary Adrian S. Cristobal Jr.
There is also greater convenience as there is no need to obtain a CO Form from issuing authorities, more cost savings in relation to administrative charges for CO application and improved timelines as weekend shipments are no longer held back by the issuing authorities since CO is no longer required. The Philippines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Indonesia and Lao for the implementation of the 2nd pilot project on self-certification to help SMEs maximize free trade agreements.