The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) unveiled a 2025 plan to position the Philippines as a regional hub for smart and sustainable industries.
The strategy focuses on attracting foreign investment, supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and optimizing trade agreements to drive inclusive economic growth and job creation.
Newly-appointed Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque emphasized her commitment to delivering on the agency’s priorities, urging all stakeholders to work collectively in realizing these goals.
“The success of Bagong Pilipinas rests with all of us. Together, we can position the Philippines as the best choice for trade and investment, ensuring no one gets left behind,” she said.
Investment promotion
The DTI will prioritize attracting investments in high-growth sectors such as renewable energy, semiconductors, electric vehicles (EVs) and batteries. The department is also strengthening collaboration with the Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC) to promote the Philippines as an investment destination.
“We must actively engage global investors to create more opportunities and jobs for Filipinos,” Roque said. She highlighted the competitive advantages of the Philippines, including a skilled workforce, a favorable business environment and the country’s unique appeal to investors.
MSME development
Acknowledging the vital role of MSMEs in the economy, the DTI aims to boost their global competitiveness through capacity building and better market access. Roque cited the need to manage expectations, ensuring MSMEs can scale sustainably.
“Let’s match their production capacity with demand to avoid overextension, which can harm relationships with buyers,” she said.
The DTI is also exploring the establishment of MSME hubs abroad, allowing Filipino entrepreneurs to showcase their products in key markets. These hubs will provide year-round exposure, reducing costs associated with international trade fairs.
Trade agreements
Roque called for leveraging trade agreements to open new opportunities for local businesses. “We aim to promote digital and sustainable growth by expanding our agreements to cover emerging sectors like e-commerce and digital trade,” she said. The department also plans to revisit existing agreements to ensure they align with modern trade dynamics, ensuring Filipino exporters benefit fully from global opportunities.
Sustainable growth
The DTI’s 2025 agenda is aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” vision. The department seeks to make the Philippines a trusted global partner in trade while addressing the need for local job creation.
“By attracting investments that generate jobs here, we can offer our overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) more opportunities to return home and be with their families,” Roque said.
The DTI is also set to explore the global halal market, providing Filipino exporters with access to this rapidly growing sector.
Roque noted the importance of collaboration within the DTI and with external partners. “This campaign is a promise to the world that we are open for business—ready for partnerships and capable of leading,” she said.
