A significant shift in Philippine trade policy took effect on February 27th, as the Bureau of Customs began enforcing anti-dumping measures on gypsum board imports. This action, slated to remain in place for five years, signals a determined effort to protect domestic industries from unfairly priced foreign competition.
The new regulations specifically target standard gypsum board – the kind commonly faced or reinforced with paper or paperboard. Implementation occurred swiftly through the Electronic-to-Mobile System, immediately impacting importers of this crucial construction material.
Investigations by the Department of Trade and Industry revealed a concerning pattern: a substantial influx of dumped gypsum board was significantly undercutting local producers. Over a five-year period, these imports, sold at artificially low prices, represented a staggering 71% of the Philippines’ total gypsum board imports.
The DTI pinpointed specific Thai manufacturers as key contributors to this issue. Gypman Tech Co. Ltd. faced a dumping margin of 8.52%, while Thai Gypsum Products PCL and other Thai exporters were assessed a 9.18% margin, reflecting the extent of the price manipulation.
This isn’t an isolated incident. The government has been actively investigating trade remedy cases since 2018, examining potential issues with cement, ceramic tiles, float glass, and other essential goods. Eighteen such investigations have been completed to date.
The implementation of these trade remedies is already showing a positive impact on government revenue. The Bureau of Customs reported collecting P154.75 billion in the first two months of the year, a 2.5% increase compared to the previous year.
February alone saw collections reach P73.8 billion, exceeding expectations despite the typically slower economic activity associated with the Chinese New Year. Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno attributed this success to enhanced assessment procedures, stricter enforcement, and diligent oversight by deputy commissioners.
The Commissioner emphasized that these results demonstrate a clear ability to meet – and even surpass – financial targets through focused effort and improved operational strategies. This proactive approach signals a commitment to safeguarding Philippine businesses and bolstering national revenue.
