Toral: The growing cost of staying in business

Source: Sun.Star Network Online
Published on: 2026-10-29 11:50

At a recent Philippine Marketing Association meeting, I witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding supporting the implementation and communication of Republic Act 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act. It was a welcome initiative, but it raised a question: Are we making it easier to start a business while overlooking how much harder it is to keep one operating? Entrepreneurs face overlapping pressures. Beyond attracting customers, they must meet regulatory requirements, manage rising expenses, and pay to access markets. Each obligation may serve a valid purpose, but together they can threaten a business's viability. Consider an entrepreneur manufacturing food products. Registration, local permits, applicable Food and Drug Administration requirements, packaging, labeling, and tax compliance can require substantial investment befor...

(Please login to view full article)

Third-Party Content Disclaimer

Content displayed on this platform may include news articles, reports, and other materials aggregated from publicly available third-party sources through automated tools. Such content is not created, written, commissioned, or edited by Straits Interactive Pte Ltd or the Data Protection Excellence (DPEX) Network.

While we take reasonable steps to ensure responsible publication, we do not independently verify all third-party information and make no representations as to its accuracy, completeness, or reliability.

The views, findings, and statements expressed in third-party content belong solely to the original source and do not reflect the views of Straits Interactive Pte Ltd or the DPEX Network.

If you believe any content is inaccurate, infringing, or should be removed, please contact us at legal@straitsinteractive.com. We will review the matter and, where appropriate, take action in accordance with our internal policies.

Unlock these benefits
globe

Get access to news, enforcement cases, events, and actionable tips and guides

email

Get regular email updates and offers

job

Job opportunities, mentorship and career guidance

discuss

Exclusive access to Data Protection community - ask questions, network and share knowledge with peers and experts via WhatsApp and Linkedin