As one of ASEAN's most dynamic and fastest-growing markets, the Philippines continues to show bright economic prospects for the year ahead. Also, based on various 2022 GDP projections, the country is likely to surpass the government target of 6.5% to 7.5%. To steer the Philippine economy to a high growth trajectory, the Marcos administration outlined the eight (8)-point socioeconomic agenda. This agenda highlights the importance of promoting trade and investments, enhancing bureaucratic efficiency, and strengthening market competition, among others.

In 2022, a number of economic milestones have transpired in the country, especially with the passage of the game-changing amendments to the Foreign Investment Act, Retail Trade Liberalization Act, and Public Service Act, as well as the relaxation of foreign participation limitation in the renewable energy sector. Following the enactment of these landmark measures, it is now incumbent upon the country to continue facilitating the ease of doing business and further improving the investment climate.

In light of this, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) invites its members and partners to a luncheon meeting with our keynote speaker, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual, as he unveils the priorities of the Agency to facilitate increased trade and investment and to improve global competitiveness. Likewise, this event will provide a hybrid platform for the European-Philippine business community to discuss potential areas for cooperation with the government.