NEDA chief says review on e-vehicles EO to focus on inclusion of e-motorcycles

National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said Monday the agency would focus on the possible inclusion of electric motorcycles in the import tariff exemption.

This as the NEDA was tasked to review the Marcos administration's Executive Order No. 12, which temporarily modifies the rates of import duty on electric vehicles, parts, and components.

"The inclusion of e-motorcycles in the import tariff incentives will take center stage once the mandatory review of Executive Order No.12 series of 2023 takes effect nine months from now," Balisacan said in a statement.

The NEDA expressed hope that the possible inclusion of e-motorcycles would "help Filipinos choose sustainable means of transportation while introducing a green industry for the majority of motorists in the country."

Under the said EO, various electric vehicles and their components received lower tariff rates from the previous 5 to 30% to now 0% import duty, with the exception of e-motorcycles as they are excluded from the tariff suspension and are still subject to 30 percent import duty.

The EO will be subject to review one year from its implementation pursuant to the provisions of the issuance.

The EO is expected "to support the transition to emerging technologies, and encourage consumers to consider electric vehicles as a cleaner and greener transportation option."

It cited Republic Act NO. 11697 or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act, which declared it a state policy to ensure the country's energy security and independence by reducing the reliance on imported fuel for the transportation sector. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News