To help reverse a sharp drop in Japanese investments within Philippine economic zones, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) recently conducted a high-level investment mission to four key Japanese cities: Hamamatsu, Osaka, Nagoya and Tokyo.
This marked PEZA’s third mission to Japan this year, aimed at encouraging more Japanese firms to locate in the country’s economic zones and reinforcing Japan’s traditional role as PEZA’s top investor.
PEZA director general Tereso Panga stated the mission was part of PEZA’s proactive strategy to re-engage Japanese investors and promote the Philippines as a competitive manufacturing and services hub in Asia.
“We are determined to bring Japan back to the top spot by showcasing the country’s improved investment climate, generous fiscal incentives under CREATE MORE, and our proven track record as a reliable business partner,” Panga said.
From January to July 2025, Japanese investments in PEZA-registered ecozones reached only P2.16 billion, a 72.87 percent decrease compared to the same period last year. Japan is now trailing behind South Korea (P10.76 billion), the U.S. (P3.24 billion), and China (P2.62 billion) in PEZA-registered investments.
PEZA partnered with Science Park of the Philippines, Inc. (SPPI), a leading ecozone developer, to conduct investment seminars in Osaka, Nagoya, and Tokyo. These seminars were held in collaboration with the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Osaka, Nagoya, and Tokyo Chambers, JETRO, and Sojitz Corporation, bringing together over a hundred Japanese business representatives.
