DTI Strengthens Business Partnerships with Japan and Hong Kong for Growth

03 Mar, 2025

The Philippines is strengthening its economic ties with Japan and Hong Kong through high-level engagements in trade, investments, and industry collaboration, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). These efforts aim to enhance supply chain integration, attract foreign investments, and solidify the country's role in regional and global trade.  

A Japanese business delegation from Okayama visited Manila from February 9-13 to explore investment opportunities. The visit, facilitated by DTI and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Osaka (PTIC-Osaka), involved top executives from sectors such as manufacturing, education, software development, property management, steel processing, banking, and automotive.  

Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo welcomed the delegation, emphasizing the Philippines' commitment to fostering strong economic partnerships. Philippine Commercial Counselor and PTIC-Osaka Director Michael Alfred Ignacio highlighted the goal of creating a more resilient supply chain, boosting industrial competitiveness, and integrating Japanese manufacturers into the Philippine market.  

Japanese investors also conducted site visits to economic zones in Manila, Cavite, and Cebu to assess the country’s strategic advantages. The Philippines currently hosts over 800 Japanese firms, with investments exceeding P589 billion and more than 300,000 jobs created. The ongoing collaboration with Japan is expected to drive further economic growth and innovation.  

The DTI also acknowledged its growing business relationship with Hong Kong at a luncheon event last month. Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office Director General Libera Cheng noted that the Philippines remains the top source of tourist arrivals for Hong Kong among ASEAN countries.  

Hong Kong welcomed nearly 1.2 million Filipino visitors last year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. With Hong Kong International Airport connecting to five major Philippine cities, travel and trade between the two regions continue to thrive, strengthening economic and cultural ties.

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