Last 28 February, the ECCP Customs Committee convened to discuss updates on the current customs landscape including the issues presently faced by importers and some developments on the Incoterms® 2020 made effective this year. Concerns were also raised on the subject of National Value Verification System (NVVS) as this may violate the World Trade Organization's methods of valuation. It is also important to note that several members of the House Ways and Means Committee similarly echoed such concerns on the said system.
On the subject of coronavirus, PPA Memorandum Circular No. 2-2020, effective last 12 February, was also released with the aim of containing the spread of the aforementioned disease. The PPA ports remain open to all ships, except cruise ships from China, Macau, Hong Kong, regardless of the 14-day incubation period of disease provided they have been boarded at quarantine anchorage.
Furthermore, the ECCP Customs Committee Chair also presented the draft Senate Bill No. 1163, Bill of Rights of Taxpayers at length, and explained the salient features of the proposed measure which included the establishment of the 'Office of the Taxpayers Advocate'. The said Bill has also been divided into three main pillars: 1) taxpayers' basic rights; 2) taxpayers' rights in civil cases, and 3) taxpayers' rights in criminal cases.
In close partnership with government, businesses, civil society, and academia, ECCP passionately works to enhance the business environment for both European and Filipino companies.