The Philippines is encouraging increased French investment in high-growth sectors by offering attractive incentives and a more streamlined business environment, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque said during the Philippines-France Business Forum on April 11, 2025.
Roque reiterated the country’s commitment to deepening economic ties with France and identified specific sectors ripe for collaboration.
The forum coincided with the Manila visit by French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad Laurent Saint-Martin.
“Minister Laurent Saint-Martin’s visit reflects the growing strength of our partnership and our shared goal of transforming it into one driven by innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth,” Roque said.
“By leveraging our complementary strengths, we can unlock vast opportunities in areas where French expertise meets Philippine priorities,” she said.
She cited key industries for potential collaboration, including IT-business process management, software development, healthcare information management, and the creative industries.
Roque said the manufacturing sector—particularly aerospace, automotive and electronics—as a promising area for French participation, alongside green ventures in energy, food security and sustainability.
Underscoring the country’s advantages, she pointed to the Philippines’ resilient economy, young and skilled workforce and strategic location in Asia as compelling reasons to invest.