DTI Submits Revised Auto Manufacturing Plan to Palace

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has resubmitted the revised Motor Vehicle Development Plan (MVDP) to Malacañang after explaining that they have already made second hand importation more restrictive.

“There was no change in the MVDP,” Trade Secretary Jesli A. Lapus told reporters.

According to Lapus, they only made clarifications because Malacañang returned the MVDP to them after receiving letters from the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) and the Fair Trade Alliance (FTA).

“I don’t see any conflict there at all. They can sign the MVDP if they accept our explanation to their queries,” Lapus noted.

He said the group has been asking about the prohibition.

In a separate interview, CAMPI president Elizabeth H. Lee said that there is a need to review and revise the current MVDP. “They have to strengthen the current tone.” Read more

Philippines Auto Industry Assemblers Reject New MVDP

Domestic automotive players have rejected the new Motor Vehicle Development Program (MVDP) questioning some provisions including allowing the entry of used motor vehicle parts and components that it would be better for the government to maintain the old program.

In a letter sent to Malacañang dated March 1, 2010, Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI) president Elizabeth H. Lee has sought Malacanang’s intervention as Trade and Industry Secretary Peter B. Favila has already endorsed the Executive Order for the new MVDP for President Gloria Arroyo’s signature.

Favila’s endorsement of the new MVDP was among his last efforts as DTI Secretary. Favila’s appointment as member of the Monetary Board, the policy making body of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, took effect last March 5, 2010. Read more

New MVDP to Consider Chinese Auto Manufacturers’ Plans

The planned entry of Chinese motor vehicle assemblers in the local market should be considered in the formulation of a new Motor Vehicle Development Program (MVDP), which used to cater only to the Japanese and American motor vehicle investors.

Elizabeth H. Lee, president of the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (CAMPI), said the planned MVDP must be fair and transparent to all stakeholders not just the existing assemblers but also parts makers, the new investors that have committed to come in, and the labor sector.

“A fair and transparent MVDP should be a result of a thorough review. As such, it will entice new investors into the industry,” Lee said. Read more