NEDA: EO No. 12 review to include e-motorcycles

The ongoing review of an executive order (EO) granting lower tariff rates for electric vehicles (EVs), their parts and components will include the proposed inclusion of e-motorcycles in the import tax breaks, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said Wednesday.

“My office is coordinating with the Tariff Commission and the Department of Trade and Industry for the review of Executive Order No. 12. We can provide details on the review soon,” NEDA chief Arsenio Balisacan said.

“Yes, the review will include the inclusion of two-wheeled vehicles,” Balisacan responded when asked if the issue on EO12 provision which had excluded e-motorbikes from the EV industry incentives will be part of the discussions.

Issued in January 2023, EO No. 12 — which orders a review of the lower tariff rates for EVs and their components — is currently undergoing its mandatory review, which started on Feb. 21.

E-motorcycles are still subjected to a 30% tariff rate under the EO, while only two-wheeled e-vehicles not exceeding 250w and with a maximum speed of 25 km/hour have 0% import duties.

On Tuesday, the NEDA called on the public to participate to share their insights on the potential inclusion of electric motorcycles in a list of electric vehicles that enjoy lower tariffs.

“The review shall carefully consider all the views and comments of stakeholders, taking into account the current market conditions. The review aims to ensure that we meet the policy objectives of EO 12 by further encouraging the adoption of EVs and fostering the growth of the domestic EV market,” the agency said.

“NEDA calls on interested parties to participate in the public hearing and share their insights on the implementation of this crucial policy, which aims to enhance the country’s energy security as we strive for social and economic transformation in the coming years,” it added.

Last year, Balisacan  said the mandatory review would focus on the possible inclusion of electric motorcycles in the import tariff exemption, as he said this would “help Filipinos choose sustainable means of transportation.”

“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,” he said last May.

Earlier, Albay Representative Joey Salceda filed a bill which aims to include electric vehicles in the list of electric transportation exempted from import duties, as these are the most affordable electric vehicles, and may be a possible solution to congestion.—RF, GMA Integrated News