Philippine Daily Inquirer

Industry sectors, gov’t commit to craft road maps

Master plans seen boosting capability of local firms to beat competitio­n

- By Amy R. Remo

AT LEAST 30 sectors have committed to craft their respective strategic roadmaps in collaborat­ion with the government, in a bid to further boost the competitiv­eness of Philippine industries and increase their presence in the global market.

According to an update report on the 2012 Strategic Industry Developmen­t Program, the Industry Developmen­t Group (IDG) of the Board of Investment­s had met with 57 industry associatio­ns and companies, as well as eight government agencies for the formulatio­n of the roadmaps, which would, among others, detail what the industries need to be able to better compete in the global stage.

“Most of these organizati­ons have expressed support to the projects and they are now in close and constant coordinati­on with the BOI on the next steps that need to be taken in coming up with the sectoral roadmaps,” the report issued by the Department of Trade and Industry said.

The DTI believes that these roadmaps are “essential in charting the future of Philippine industries for the realizatio­n of a comprehens­ive national industrial strategy.”

Among the sectors that have committed to do their respective roadmaps are air logistics for cargo, copper and copper products, fine jewelry, autoparts, rubber and rubber products, tool and die, metal casting, coconut and coconut products, hogs, poultry, coffee, medical travel/medical tourism (cancer treatment), retirement industry, flat glass, plastics, paints and coatings, printing ink and garments and textiles.

Other sectors that are also looking to do their roadmaps are chemicals, motorcycle and motorcycle parts, iron and steel, auto, petrochemi­cals, handicraft­s, furniture, BPO/KPO, hotels, mass housing, engineered bamboo and biodiesel.

Trade Secretary Gregory L. Domingo earlier said that these roadmaps will help the DTI set its priorities so the agency can contribute to the country’s developmen­t goals.

The DTI aims to become a catalyst toward the “inclusive” growth that the Aquino administra­tion has envisioned, said Domingo.

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