The Philippines, with its 7,107 islands, has the potential to become a top cruising destination. The country also possesses pristine beaches as well as vast marine resources. However, in order to boost tourism, the domestic boat industry requires more attention by the government. This matter was brought up during the first day of the 7th SEA-EX 2015, a boat show and nautical lifestyle expo held at the SMX Convention Center from February 20-22, 2015. The event was organized by a group of boat builders, Sea-Ex, in partnership with the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines. The annual event featured various types of watercraft from at least 70 international and local firms.
“Why market one island, when you can invite people to see the country’s 7,107 islands by being a cruising destination,” said Angelo Olondriz, Sea-Ex chair and president of Headsail Inc. Moreover, he stressed that having one of the longest coastlines in the world boosts the Philippines’ potential as a top cruising destination. It is an industry that remains small and untapped because it lacks attention from the government. Nonetheless, the possibility remains that it can grow into a billion-dollar industry. Olondriz also pointed out that the diving industry was flourishing, and boats are a key component of that.
In the country, the boat industry is grouped together with the ship industry which builds massive passenger liners as well as oil and cargo tankers. This situation has made it difficult for boat builders to rise and become more competitive. Smaller leisure water craft is made by boat builders. Olondriz further remarked that “the rules pertaining to the ship industry are what will kill us. We are different”. The desire of boat builders is for the government to become aware of the potential of the boat industry, for incentives to be provided and for import taxes to be reduced. Doing so will enable the industry the grow. It is also worth noting that Thailand’s boat industry is now worth 1 billion baht after import taxes were dropped by the government 10 years ago.
You can read the original article here: http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/185296/ph-can-be-top-cruise-stop
