European businessmen want to see more competition among industries in the Philippines. Florian Gottein, executive director of the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) in a speech at a competition forum yesterday, identified these sectors as telecommunications, infrastructure, and retail which he said are highly crucial to the daily lives of all Filipinos and smooth business operations,"whether Filipino or European." "Competition, while not necessarily a burning topic these days,is certainly crucial to the success of any economy. As such, it is one of the issues that the European Chamber keeps a close eye on," Gottein said. Gottein said the European business community recognizes the importance of a competitive market, which encourages efficiency and innovation. "Competition is one of the most important drivers that prompt businesses to provide a broad range of high­ quality goods and services, at accessible prices for Filipino consumers,"he added. "Whether through job creation,fair market prices, or better variety in choice, we at the ECCP believe that competition is what drives innovation and is one of the essential aspects that will propel the country forward," he said EU ambassador to the Philippines Franz Jessen for his part reiterated the need for the country to "take more advantage of opening up the economy now that there is already an over arching agency that will ensure a competitive market." Jessen said having a competition policy in place is important both for businesses and consumers as it ensures low prices and better quality. He added competition encourages businesses to improve the quality of goods and brings innovation.