MANILA – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has extended the validity of importer accreditation from one year to three years and reduced related fees as part of efforts to streamline trade processes in the country.

Finance Secretary Frederick Go said Tuesday that the reform is intended to reduce bureaucratic requirements and improve efficiency in the trading system.

“This reform allows businesses to focus more on operations and growth rather than administrative requirements,” Go said in a statement.

Under a Customs Administrative Order (CAO) signed by Go, the annual administration fee of PHP2,000—or PHP6,000 over three years—has been replaced with a one-time payment of PHP5,000 for a three-year accreditation period, effectively lowering overall costs for importers.

The measure aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to promote a more business-friendly environment and enhance the country’s trade competitiveness.

Despite the longer validity period, importers are still required to submit an Annual Reportorial Compliance within 30 days of their accreditation anniversary to ensure updated records and continued compliance.

The CAO also provides clearer guidelines for automatic renewal. Importers with six consecutive years of uninterrupted and compliant accreditation may qualify for renewal without reapplication.

The policy likewise covers Authorized Economic Operators and Super Green Lane Accredited Importers.