BRUSSELS, BELGIUM–Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual met with Mrs. Heidi Hautala, the Vice President of the European Parliament on 27 June 2023 to underscore the need to continue the EU Generalized Scheme of Preferences-Plus (GSP+) and ensure that in the transition to the new scheme the preferential arrangement is not interrupted. He also provided updates on the recent developments in the county in the areas of good governance, labor, human rights, and environment. 

Given that the Philippines can serve as the EU’s strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region, Secretary Pascual also urged Ms. Hautala to support the Philippines’ bid for the resumption of the PH – EU FTA negotiations. Secretary Pascual also highlighted investment opportunities in the Philippines such as in the areas of renewable energy, digital technology, and manufacturing which EU companies can take advantage of.

Ms. Hautala recognized the good progress in the Philippines especially in the areas of good governance, labor, human rights, and environment with a view that these positive developments continue. She also expressed optimism for stronger and more stable PH-EU economic relations.

Also present were Ambassador Jaime Victor B. Ledda, DTI Undersecretary for Communications Ma. Blanca Kim B. Lokin; DTI Assistant Secretary Allan B. Gepty; Commercial Counselor Magnolia M. Ashley; and Philippine Embassy in Brussels Ms. Susanna Mendiola.*

Date of release: 29 June 2023