Given the shortage in global supply of critical goods in the fight against COVID 19 and export bans imposed by partner-countries, a network of government and private sector groups in the Philippines have embarked on initiatives to re-purpose manufacturing from serving export markets to fulfilling domestic needs.
Governments are swiftly enacting temporary trade measures that aim to restrict exports of essentials and to liberalise imports of vital medical supplies.
A new $110 million initiative will back Australia’s agricultural and fisheries sector by helping them export their high-quality produce into key overseas markets, with return flights bringing back vital medical supplies, medicines and equipment.
Global airfreight capacity in Australia has been minimal due to the grounding of most passenger aircraft. Larger businesses have managed to secure arrangements for charters or use of passenger aircraft as cargo flights but many SMEs out there do not have the volume to justify such an outlay.
