The National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL) has called on the government to prioritize the strengthening of the country’s National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) system, saying it plays a key role in boosting exports and supporting economic growth.
According to the 2023 Global Quality Infrastructure Index, the Philippines ranked 57th worldwide in quality infrastructure development. The country trails behind regional neighbors Vietnam (52nd), Malaysia (33rd), Singapore (29th), Thailand (28th), and Indonesia (27th).
“Without a robust quality infrastructure, Philippine exporters cannot prove their products meet international standards, limiting access to premium markets and fair prices,” NAST PHL said in a statement.
NQI is a system made up of public and private organizations, policies, legal frameworks, and practices that ensure the quality, safety, and environmental soundness of goods, services, and processes. It allows domestic markets to work properly while giving international recognition needed to enter foreign markets.
NQI has five main components: metrology (measurement standards), standardization (setting product standards), accreditation (verifying competence), conformity assessment (testing and certification), and market surveillance (monitoring compliance). Together, these help Philippine businesses show that their products meet both local and international requirements.
NAST PHL laid down several recommendations for government action. These include:
- Passing a comprehensive NQI law in the 20th Congress to modernize and integrate the country’s quality systems
- Creating a National Quality Infrastructure Coordinating Council through a Presidential Executive Order to align agencies working on quality standards
- Increasing budget support to strengthen personnel and facilities of NQI agencies, addressing current shortages of staff and resources
- Offering incentives such as tax exemptions for companies pursuing quality certifications and giving businesses better information on export requirements
- Promoting a culture of quality by integrating awareness into education from primary to university levels
Studies have shown that countries with strong quality infrastructure systems experience higher export growth and better consumer protection. Data indicates that the link between QI development and export performance stands at 88 percent, suggesting that improvements in the Philippines’ system could significantly support trade.
The recommendations also align with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which identifies NQI strengthening as a strategic priority for trade promotion and economic development.