Senator Erwin Tulfo wants Japan to remove import tariffs on Philippine-made heated tobacco products, fruits and other agricultural goods to give local exporters better access to the Japanese market.
Tulfo raised the proposal during the Philippine Senate delegation’s visit to Japan, which is marking 70 years of diplomatic friendship with the Philippines.
“With the emergence of new products from the Philippine tobacco industry and the increasing demand for them in Japan, we are respectfully asking the Japanese government to consider our proposal to exempt Philippine-made HTPs from tariffs,” he said.
Tulfo said these products were not covered when the Philippine-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement was negotiated in 2008.
The senator said removing the tariffs would also put Philippine-made heated tobacco products on equal footing with similar goods from the European Union.
“This will not only ensure a steady supply to our Asian neighbors but will also strengthen the Philippine manufacturing, agriculture, and export industries, ultimately boosting the country’s economy and generate jobs,” he said.
Tulfo was joined by Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan in pushing for the proposal.
The delegation also met with Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, former Prime Minister Kishida Fumio and other Japanese officials.IMT
