The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the ARISE Plus Philippines recently convened the Executive Sessions focusing on e-Commerce De Minimis Threshold and Taxation Regulations at the Makati Diamond Residences, Makati City. This initiative is part of the support extended by ARISE Plus Philippines, implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) as a technical agency, to the BOC under their Project on “Strengthened Trade Facilitation Capacity for implementing the CMTA and WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (WTO TFA).”
Customs officials, including representatives from the Philippine Trade Facilitation Committee (PTFC), National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), Optical Media Board (OMB), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gained knowledge based on international best practices. They drew on concepts, lessons, and experiences shared by Customs Administrations in Indonesia, Australia, and the European Commission, all of which have effectively implemented and overseen the flow of e-Commerce goods, especially in the aspects of deminimis thresholds, taxation, and risk management.
Deputy Commissioner Vener S. Baquiran, representing BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, and the PTFC, delivered the opening remarks. “The BOC continuously strives to develop and implement policies that strike a delicate balance between facilitating the smooth flow of goods and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. These efforts not only benefit businesses by reducing trade barriers and bolstering competitiveness, but also empower consumers with access to a diverse range of products from across the world”.
Representing PTFC Chair Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno, DOF OIC Undersecretary Dakila Elteen M. Napao, emphasized in his keynote address: “In an era where the e-Commerce landscape is rapidly evolving, it is imperative that we are well-versed in the intricacies of taxation to ensure that our policies align with the dynamic nature of the industry. Our goal is to effectively support the escalating trade volumes driven by e-commerce, ensuring our Customs officers and Trade Regulatory Government Agency partners are well-equipped to adapt to these emerging trends”.
The concluding session centered on a Writeshop dedicated in drafting the Customs Administrative Order (CAO) addressing clearance and release procedures for cross-border e-Commerce shipments.
The collaboration reflects BOC’s commitment in advancing trade facilitation, ensuring smooth goods flow across borders, and aligning with international best practices in furtherance with Commissioner Rubio’s priority program towards streamlining customs procedures , benefiting stakeholders in the global trade community.
