The renewed momentum in negotiations for the European Union-Philippines Free Trade Agreement (FTA) positions the Philippines at a crucial juncture to significantly bolster its trade and investment relationship with Europe. Exhibiting robust economic dynamism, the Philippines registered consistent economic expansion in 2024, surpassing several of its ASEAN counterparts, including Malaysia and Thailand. This impressive growth, coupled with a youthful and highly skilled labor force and a burgeoning middle-class consumer market, establishes the Philippines as a compelling prospect for European enterprises seeking regional expansion.
Underpinning these economic advantages are significant policy reforms designed to cultivate a more favorable business environment within the nation. The CREATE MORE Act is strategically enhancing fiscal incentives to attract greater investment, while the recently implemented Public-Private Partnership Code is anticipated to catalyze substantial infrastructure development. Furthermore, the liberalization of pivotal sectors, such as the allowance of full foreign ownership in renewable energy ventures, is proving to be a magnet for increased foreign direct investment. Landmark infrastructure initiatives, including the Build Better More Program, are actively modernizing the country’s infrastructure and improving vital connectivity. The government’s intensified commitment to streamlining bureaucratic processes is further evidenced by initiatives like the Green Lanes for Strategic Investments, which expedite high-impact projects within crucial sectors such as renewable energy and digital infrastructure. Ongoing enhancements, encompassing capital market reforms and the Ease of Paying Taxes Act, are progressively rendering the Philippine business landscape more competitive and appealing to both domestic and international investors.
Against this backdrop of promising developments, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) and the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) are once again collaborating to present the 2025 European-Philippine Business Dialogue (EPBD) & European Investors’ Night. Anchored by the theme “Keeping the Philippine Centrestage,” this premier event will convene prominent business leaders from across Europe and Southeast Asia in the Philippines. It will serve as a vibrant forum for in-depth discussions on strategies to further elevate the Philippines’ standing as an attractive investment destination and enhance its global economic competitiveness.
The dialogue will also provide a focused exploration of the Philippines’ evolving business and investment climate, examining effective strategies to deepen economic linkages with Europe and the wider ASEAN region and to unlock emergent opportunities for trade and investment.
