Global investors show keen interest in country: WEF

‘The economy here has really shown how resilient it is. We are seeing a lot of global business interest in the Philippines. It’s now the fastest-growing economy in the region’

World Economic Forum President Børge Brende said the Philippine economy remains resilient as global investors continued to show interest in investing in the country.

In a press briefing, Brende emphasized the remarkable growth trajectory of the Philippine economy as he underscored the country’s status as the fastest-growing economy in the region.

“The economy here has really shown how resilient it is. We are seeing a lot of global business interest in the Philippines. It’s now the fastest-growing economy in the region,” Brende said.

Brende highlighted the increasing influx of investments and foreign direct investment interest in the Philippines, despite

FDI levels being relatively lower compared to neighboring countries.

Sustained reforms needed

He emphasized the necessity for sustained reforms to unlock the country’s full economic potential, envisioning a $2 trillion US dollar economy in the coming decade.

Bullish

“We are very bullish on the Philippines provided that reforms do continue,” Brende said.

“If there are better investments in education, infrastructure, and tapping into the great competence of the Filipino people, this can be a $2 trillion US dollar economy,” he added.

Acknowledging the paradigm shift towards a knowledgebased economy, Brende stressed the importance of investing in education and technology to drive productivity gains.

Confidence

He expressed confidence in the Philippines’ ability to capitalize on international interest and diversify its economy, particularly in the manufacturing sector.

“There are geopolitical challenges in the region, but they also present opportunities for increased investment, especially in manufacturing,” Brende explained. “Diversification of supply chains offers potential for the Philippines to attract more investment.”

Furthermore, Brende commended the Philippines’ stable fiscal and monetary policies, as well as efforts to streamline bureaucratic processes to facilitate investment.

He also highlighted the country’s renewable energy potential as a key area for future growth, emphasizing the competitiveness and independence offered by renewable energy sources.

“The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, indicating a growing appetite for investing in the Philippines,” Brende concluded.

In conclusion, the WEF President’s remarks underscored the Philippines’ emergence as a favored investment destination, fueled by its resilient economy, strategic reforms, and abundant opportunities for growth.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF THE DTI EUROPEAN Commission executive vice president Valdis Dombrovskis (left) and Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual shake hands after the announcement of the resumption of negotiations for the Philippines-EU Free Trade Agreement, on Monday night in Brussels, Belgium.