Philippines to ask US for suspension of tariffs for goods from typhoon-hit areas

The Philippine government said Wednesday that it will ask the United States to temporarily suspend the collection of duties for goods produced from typhoon- affected areas such as garments. Trade Secretary Gregory L. Domingo said allowing goods produced from typhoon-hit areas to enter the U.S. at zero duty could help rebuild their economy. "What the Philippines is asking for is duty-free entry of goods to the U.S. for a limited period of time only," said Domingo. If Washington grants the government's request, he said the provinces of Samar and Leyte in central Philippines could attract investors. Domingo said the Philippine government is now in talks with garment companies to put up factories in central Philippines.