3 days ago
NAST PHL calls for urgent action to boost export competitiveness through quality infrastructure
The National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL) on Friday issued a compelling call for the government to prioritize strengthening the country's National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) system, citing its critical role in boosting Philippine exports and economic growth.
The Philippines currently ranks 57th globally in quality infrastructure development, trailing behind regional neighbors Vietnam (52nd), Malaysia (33rd), Singapore (29th), Thailand (28th), and Indonesia (27th), according to the 2023 Global Quality Infrastructure Index.
NQI is the system comprising public and private organizations, policies, legal frameworks, and practices that ensure the quality, safety, and environmental soundness of goods, services, and processes. It enables domestic markets to function effectively while providing the international recognition needed to access foreign markets.
As a critical element for economic development and social well-being, NQI relies on five key components: metrology (measurement standards), standardization (setting product standards), accreditation (verifying competence), conformity assessment (testing and certification), and market surveillance (monitoring compliance). Together, these components help Philippine businesses prove their products meet both local and international requirements.
Key recommendations for government action:
Pass priority legislation - NAST PHL urges the 20th Congress to prioritize comprehensive NQI legislation to modernize and integrate the country's quality systems.
Create a coordinating council - Establish a National Quality Infrastructure Coordinating Council through a Presidential Executive Order to align all quality-related government agencies.
Increase budget support - Provide adequate funding to strengthen personnel and facilities of NQI agencies, addressing current shortages of staff and resources.
Support businesses - Offer incentives like tax exemptions for companies pursuing quality certifications and provide better information about export requirements.
Promote quality culture - Integrate quality awareness in education from primary school to university level.
Studies show that countries with strong quality infrastructure systems experience higher export growth and better protect consumers. The correlation between QI development and exports stands at 88%, indicating that improving the Philippines' quality systems could significantly boost trade performance.
'Without a robust quality infrastructure, Philippine exporters cannot prove their products meet international standards, limiting access to premium markets and fair prices,' the statement emphasized.
The Academy's recommendations come as the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 identifies NQI strengthening as a strategic priority for trade promotion and economic development.
