PHL, S. Korea sign deals on critical minerals, EVs

TRADE Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque signed a strategic partnership agreement involving critical minerals and electric vehicles (EVs) with South Korean Minister for Trade, Industry, and Energy Cheong In-Kyo, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.

In a statement on Thursday, the DTI said the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed in South Korea on Wednesday is expected to accelerate trade, drive industrial transformation, and support the transition to green energy.

“This MoU is the embodiment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s mission to build a nation propelled by strategic global partnerships, environmentally responsible development, and a dynamic industrial sector,” Ms. Roque said.

The MoU covers renewable energy, electric vehicles, and the value-added processing of critical minerals for battery production in the interest of advancing both countries’ green industrial revolution.

Also on Thursday, Ms. Roque inaugurated the DTI SME Showroom at the President Hotel, offering a showcase for export-ready Philippine products.

“This launch is a concrete step towards bringing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) closer to the global market,” Ms. Roque said.

“By providing this physical presence overseas, we break through geographical barriers for our SMEs and build the trust that international buyers seek,” she said. — Justine Irish D. Tabile