Trade & Investment

Strong macroeconomic expansion, rising consumer incomes and soaring import demand has kept trade volumes in the Philippines on a consistent upwards trajectory over the past decade. The country remains in trade deficit, with exports faltering in recent years as a result of external challenges such as low global commodity prices; softening demand in China, Japan and the US; and uncertainty over trade prospects with the EU in light of the Brexit vote. However, rising investment in manufacturing and industry could see the situation shift to a better balance in the coming years. The administration of President Rodrigo Duterte is explicitly targeting increased foreign direct investment, deploying a multi-pronged strategy to attract new inflows.

This chapter contains interviews with Ramon M Lopez, Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry; and Vivencio B Dizon, President and CEO, Bases Conversion and Development Authority.