THE PHILIPPINES started implementing an ASEAN-wide exporter self-certification scheme that allows businesses to claim their own origin declaration for lower or no duties under the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA).

Beginning Sept. 20, the Philippines started using the ASEAN-Wide Self-Certification Scheme (AWSC), which means that exporters can issue their own origin declaration — certifying that their products meet the criteria used to deem that they have originated from a particular country.

Importers use such declarations for ATIGA preferential tariffs.

Source: Business World