DTI launches Asean 2017 economic program

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is set to launch today in Malacañang the investment and business program for ASEAN 2017 which the Philippines is hosting.

“DTI as chair of the ASEAN Economic Ministers ( AEM) and the chair for the Committee on Business and Investment Promotion ( CBIP) will unveil several business programs for the year that will complement Philippines’ priorities under the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) pillar,” Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said.

The CBIP, an inter-agency committee established by the Philippines’ 2017 ASEAN National Organizing Committee, is responsible for engaging the international business community, investors, government and other parties, as well as supervising potential business and investment-related activities.

Among the six thematic priorities identified for the Philippine chairmanship of ASEAN 2017, DTI is set to highlight efforts under the thematic priority “promoting inclusive, innovation- led growth, for shared prosperity in ASEAN.”

“Having AEC pillar in mind, CBIP developed business programs that will complement our regional effort in terms of regulatory coherence, promotion and internationalization of micro, small and medium enterprises, development of an innovation-driven economy, and promotion of women and youth entrepreneurship,” Lopez said.

Key government agencies, representatives of ASEAN member states and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council led by presidential adviser Joey Concepcion are expected during the launch.

The country’s chairmanship of ASEAN 2017 was formally launched Jan. 15 in Davao City with the theme “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World.”