More affordable European cars is achievable once Free Trade Agreement is approved

2:39:00 PM

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.

Last March 12, 2016, I was very honored to be part of Philippines' 1st European Car Show, thanks to the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines(ECCP) for making it possible and to Ms. Cristel Maramag for the invitation. I was able to be part of their press conference held on the 2nd day of their 3 day exhibit at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City together with other bloggers and media friends.

In the photo (from right to left) are Matthieu Penot of the EU Delegation; JP Orbeta, President and CEO of Volkswagen; Austrian Ambassador Dr. Josef Muellner; EU Ambassador Franz Jessen; Dr. Andree Buhl, German Commercial Counselor; ECCP President Guenter Taus; Chris Nelson, British Chamber President; Florian Gottein, ECCP Vice President; Atty. Cesar C. Cruz, ECCP Corporate Secretary; Alessia Reyes, Italian Chamber Director and Emmanuel de Ghellinck, BFBC representative.

Present that day as panel members were President of ECCP, Guenter Taus and the head of delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, His Excellency Ambassador Franz Jessen. 



Both explained that European cars are the best in the industry, from their excellent automotive engineering to the impeccably gorgeous designs. When asked how these European car brands would compete with other locally known brands which are way more affordable than theirs, they revealed that the European Union is currently having a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with our country. So, indeed, there is the possibility that these amazing cars will be a bit more affordable to the public.

Once approved, the FTA can also help boost business ties and trade between the Philippines and the EU. The first round of discussions is expected to start here in May followed by another discussion in Europe later this year. 

The 3 day car show featured some 20 magnificent cars from different iconic car brands such as Audi, BMW, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, Porsche, Volkswagen and Volvo which are all known for their fabulous luxury, eco-friendly auto technology and high safety standards. A display of classic cars from the collection of European car clubs who participated in the event were seen at the car show.


Guenter Taus (right), President of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP), gives a thumbs-up for the Audi R8 Spyder that was showcased during the 1st European Motor Show motorcade held at Bonifacio Global City on March 12, 2016. Also in the photo are EU Ambassador Franz Jessen with his son and ECCP Vice President Florian Gottein
European motorcycle makers such as BMW Motorrad, Ducati and IMZ-Ural are also present during the event with a dozen of superbikes in display. 



A passenger-friendly bus from MAN which is suitable for Metro Manila road conditions was also showcased at the event.



The event was co-funded by the European Union; organized by Fairs & More, Inc (a subsidiary of ECCP) and EU-Philippines Business Network (EPBN) which includes the Belgian, British, European, French, German, Italian, Nordic and Spanish chambers of commerce; and supported by co-presenters Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation, sponsors MAN and JEC Philippines and media partner CNN Philippines.

It was such a great experience to see a lot of these amazing cars making me imagine that hopefully someday, I would be able to buy a car. I am also looking forward for the next European car show and that the FTA will be approved soon.

You Might Also Like

0 comments

Youtube

Facebook Page

Instagram