The Philippine government will ask the World Trade Organization (WTO) for more international market access in the bi-annual Ministerial Conference in Cancun, Mexico in September but added, it will continue protecting it’s own weak industries.
Trade and Industry Secretary Manuel Roxas II said in a recent presentation before members of the House of Representatives special committee on globalization that the country’s posture in Cancun is consistent with President Arroyo’s support for integration.
However, because of domestic concerns, the government will opt for minimum compliance to the liberalization programs of the past administrations, Roxas said.
"The Philippines should not be afraid to say no to unbridled liberalization but be ready to say yes to the legitimate challenge of international competitiveness," Roxas said.
Present during the discussions affecting the country in the forthcoming round of talks in the WTO and the bi-annual Ministerial Conference in Cancun were Herminio Teves, Harry Angping, Teddy Locsin Jr., Antonino Roman, Wilfrido Villarama and Lorenzo del de Guzman.
Roxas said that while globalization is being pushed by the country, the government is also exerting efforts to protect local industries that need more time to improve their sectors and become more competitive in the global market.
"It is to the country’s advantage to undertake a pragmatic, circumspect approach to liberalization. At rock bottom, our strategy should call for the Philippine industry to enhance its global competitiveness even if from time to time, it must be sheltered from severe liberalization," he said.
Roxas cited government efforts to bolster global competitiveness of industries such as fresh and canned tuna, but also cement, sugar, petrochemicals, garments, automative and electronics.
Source: Philstar