SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Bureau of Customs (BOC)–Port of Subic has received its first shipment of 100 BYD passenger vehicles intended for domestic consumption, marking a potential expansion of automotive importation activities through the port.

The shipment, which includes various BYD models and variants, was brought in as a test run that could lead to succeeding vehicle importations through Subic.

District Collector Geniefelle P. Lagmay said the port would continue to provide efficient customs services while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

“This first discharge of BYD vehicles intended for consumption is a welcome development for the Port of Subic. We are hopeful that this initial shipment will lead to continuous importation activities and encourage more companies to utilize our port,” Lagmay said.

He added that the port remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring compliance with customs laws, rules and regulations.

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said it expects electric vehicle (EV) shipments to increase as Subic strengthens its role in the country’s automotive logistics and supply chain sector.

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations and Logistics Ronnie Yambao said Subic Bay’s strategic location, port infrastructure and Freeport status provide opportunities for businesses involved in importing, exporting, distributing and handling electric vehicles and related components.

Yambao said increased EV shipments could also support warehousing, storage, inspection, inventory management and distribution services. These activities could extend to the supply of electric vans, utility vehicles, buses and other commercial fleet vehicles.

He added that the Freeport could support the movement of EV components, charging equipment, replacement parts and battery-related products, subject to applicable transport and safety regulations.

Subic could also explore re-export and regional logistics opportunities by consolidating and transferring eligible vehicle shipments to other markets in accordance with customs and trade regulations, Yambao said.

The BOC–Port of Subic and SBMA said their continued coordination aims to support legitimate trade, attract business and investment, and strengthen Subic’s position as a logistics and maritime hub. (Jun Dumaguing for Ang Pahayagan)

Photos courtesy of BOC-Port of Subic