Suspension of port fees pushed

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it is pushing for the suspension of government-imposed charges on port and cargo logistics, as the escalating conflict in the Middle East threatens to drive up prices of basic goods.

“We recommend the temporary suspension of government shares on port and cargo logistics handling costs imposed by the Philippine Ports Authority, Cebu Ports Authority, and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority,” Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque told a Senate hearing.

The agency also recommends imposing a temporary moratorium on toll fees for cargo and delivery vehicles transporting basic and prime commodities.

“We acknowledge that the prices actually will increase, not because of the product itself, but because of the cost of logistics,” she added.

The Trade secretary said that DTI will convene the National Price Coordinating Council on Mar. 13 to discuss possible mitigation measures amid the Middle East conflict.   

She said that local manufacturers and retailers have also informed the DTI that they have inventory that could last for the next two months.

She said that field offices have been ordered to tighten price and supply monitoring nationwide to ensure that the prices of basic goods and prime commodities remain at reasonable prices.

She added that the agency will also sign a memorandum of understanding with 30 logistics companies to ensure that they keep prices low in cases of crises and calamities.

“The DTI remains committed to safeguarding consumer welfare and maintaining a stable and competitive business environment,” Ms. Roque said.

She added that the agency will keep close coordination with local industries, manufacturing basic necessities and prime commodities. — Adrian H. Halili