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25th April 2025

DA boosts farm sector with energy-efficient cold chain and logistics

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is enhancing farm productivity with energy-efficient cold chain and food logistics systems. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 5, outlining measures to reduce post-harvest losses, ensure food safety, and secure a stable supply of agricultural and fisheries products. Poor infrastructure has long led to high transport costs, wastage, and food insecurity.

25th April 2025

Key updates on mandatory creditable withholding tax refund

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has clarified rules on tax credit and refund applications under Revenue Memorandum Circular (RMC) No. 14-2025. In time for the tax season and filing of returns this upcoming 15 April 2025; Here’s what businesses need to know:

When Does This Apply to Businesses?
Business Closure or Cessation – If a company is shutting down, it can apply for a tax credit or refund of excess/unutilized Creditable Withholding Taxes (CWT). Corporate taxpayers have two years from the date of dissolution to claim this under Section 76(C) of the Tax Code.

25th April 2025

2025 PEDP export target under refinement as external factors impact growth

In 2024, the Philippines’ total exports reached $125.21 billion, with a total of $73.23 billion of goods and US$51.98 billion of services exports. The value of goods exports, reflecting a slight 0.5% decline from the $73.62 Billion reported in 2023.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) report, Electronic products (including other electronics) remained the country’s top export, reaching $42.7B. However, this reflects a 6.4% decline compared to the $45.7B in 2023.

25th April 2025

Unlocking Enterprise Competitiveness and Productivity: Making businesses thrive and future ready

“Unlocking enterprise competitiveness and productivity” took center stage at the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT)’s 1st Quarter General Membership Meeting (GMM). Aligning with its theme, the discussions underscored skills, production, market opportunities, and incentives – key elements to help businesses adapt, survive and thrive in the global landscape.

17th March 202517th March 2025

ARTA holds World Bank’s Business Ready Report forum

The Anti-Red Tape Authority conducted a forum entitled “New Insights on the Philippine Business Environment: Exploring the World Bank’s Business Ready Report” to discuss the Business Ready (B-READY) Report, which assessed how prepared the country is in expanding business-friendly programs and policies. The event is in collaboration with the World Bank and attended by key government agencies, various businesses, and academic leaders to explore how the country can enhance the ease of doing business.

17th March 2025

Unlocking VAT Perks: DTI-BIR Consultation Clarifies Zero-Rating for Exporters

The Department of Trade and Industry – Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB) held a Joint Public Consultation (PubCon) on February 19, 2025, to clarify the implementation of the CREATE MORE Act, specifically regarding the Certificate of Zero-VAT Rating for Export-Oriented Enterprises (EOEs).

Held both onsite and online, the consultation tackled the tax treatment of EOEs under the new law. Officials presented the draft Revenue Regulation (RR), draft Joint Administrative Order (JAO), and the procedures for securing a Zero-Rated VAT accreditation certificate. Key speakers included Mr. Jun-Jun B. Andallo, Atty. Brianna Kay De Los Santos, and Ms. Asnia R. Bayabao from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and DTI-EMB.

17th March 2025

Growing Prosperity: Lessons from the 8th Philippine Farm Tourism Conference

Following Bohol’s hosting last year, General Santos City—the Tuna Capital of the Philippines—welcomed delegates to the 8th Philippine Farm Tourism Conference (PIFTC) from February 24-26, 2025, at KCC Mall. Themed “Stimulating Sustainable Economic Growth in Rural Communities through Farm Tourism,” the event provided valuable insights from agricultural experts, farm owners, and industry leaders on advancing farm tourism.

3rd January 2025

ARTA and WBG collaborates on the Business-Ready initiative

The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) has partnered with the World Bank Group (WBG) to elevate the Philippines’ ranking within the top 20 percent of the Business Ready (B-READY) report. The report is developed by the WBG, the new corporate flagship publication that assesses the business environment of economies worldwide.

ARTA has been designated by the Office of the President as the Government Focal Point for the B-READY initiative. ARTA will coordinate with government agencies, WBG, and the private sector to implement and integrate recommendations based on the results and assessment.

3rd January 2025

Final Push for Exports: PEDP 2023-2028 culminates in Angeles City

The Department of Trade and Industry – Export Marketing Bureau (DTI-EMB), the Export Development Council (EDC), and the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) concluded the final Usapang Exports Information Session on the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028: Cascading Government Programs and Services. The event was held on November 14, 2024, at Best Western Plus Metro Clark, Angeles City, Pampanga.

3rd January 2025

Revive and Thrive: DTI launches zero-interest loans to boost typhoon-hit MSMEs

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently launched the Enterprise Rehabilitation Financing(ERF) Program through the Small Business Corporation to support businesses impacted by Typhoon Kristine. Targeting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the program offers financial relief for exporters and other businesses seeking to rebuild and strengthen their operations post-disaster.