German and Philippine businesses are optimistic on investments and employment, while citing concerns over skilled labor shortages, policy uncertainties, demand fluctuations and supply chain issues.
The latest Fall 2024 AHK World Business Outlook Survey, conducted by the German–Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI), examined external factors impacting competitiveness, focusing on supplier networks, new markets and competition challenges as well as trends over the past five years.
The latest survey revealed growing optimism, with 58 percent of businesses anticipating improved conditions, up from 50 percent in Spring 2024.
Investment intentions are similarly strong, with 55 percent of companies planning to boost investments—an encouraging rise from 44 percent in the previous survey.
Employment projections are also climbing, signaling potential growth in local job creation over the coming year.
“The optimism from German-Philippine businesses demonstrates our commitment to reinforcing economic ties. The increase in investment and employment intentions reflects confidence in the Philippine market, and we look forward to seeing these positive trends realized in the coming year,” said GPCCI president Marie Antoniette Mariano.
Businesses report challenges including a shortage of skilled workers, complex economic policies and policy unpredictability.
Supply chain disruptions and changing market demands are additional hurdles affecting operational efficiency, they said.
To help companies manage these regulatory and market risks, GPCCI introduced the German-Philippine Business Action Portal (GPBAP), a platform aimed at guiding businesses through emerging challenges and promoting resilience.
