The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) welcomed the deferment on the implementation of Sugar Order No. 6, supposedly to take effect on February 1, following concerns raised by sugar stakeholders on its impact to the industry.

“We are glad that the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has listened to and considered valid the concerns of the sugar manufacturers, and acted upon immediately on the postponement of the order’s implementation,” PCCI President Eunina V. Mangio said.

In an earlier round table discussion (RTD) organized by the by the American Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AMCHAM), participants composed of food and beverage manufacturers, industry associations and chambers of commerce called on SRA to conduct proper consultation with stakeholders and Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) on any policy changes, as well as to align its regulations with the Anti-Red Tape Authority’s (ARTA) Ease of Doing Business for “simplified, efficient, and transparent governance.

The SRA’s Sugar Order No. 6 regulates the importation of sugar and sugar confectionery products with tariff headings 1701, 1702 and 1704. Goods belonging to 1701 include sucrose, specialty sugar, flavored syrup while those under 1702 include so-called “other sugars” like lactose, glucose, maltose, maple syrup, honey and caramel. Additionally, commodities with tariff heading 1704 are sugar confectionery items such as chewing gum and white chocolate not containing cocoa.

While the intention of SO No. 6 was valid, essentially to protect the local producers by strictly monitoring the entry of imported sugar-based products and alternatives, Mangio said that such regulatory measure should not be to the detriment of other quarters in the industry that are legitimately doing business.

“There will always have good results in open dialogues and proper consultations. The government and private sector should work together for the benefit of both the local farmers and consumers,” Mangio added.