Press Releases

Makati City, Philippines – The Philippines emerges as a promising investment destination, fueled by resilient economic growth and policy reforms attracting foreign investment. This outlook is reinforced by forward-looking and proactive initiatives, as highlighted by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) at a press conference on Thursday, 22 January 2026.

“Despite global uncertainties, the Philippine economy remains resilient. Driven by a young, growing population and strong English proficiency, the Philippines continues to be among the fastest-growing economies in ASEAN,” said ECCP President Duarte. This resilience is reflected in a record GNI per capita of USD 4,470, placing the country below the upper-middle income status; a 1.7% inflation rate in 2025; and a steady economic growth, which averaged over 5% in the first half of the year.

Remittances from overseas Filipino workers also continue to bolster the economy, while ongoing negotiations for the Europe-Philippines Free Trade Agreement (EU-PH FTA) present new avenues for trade and investment — strengthening the country’s readiness to engage in meaningful international partnerships.

ECCP’s 2025 Business Sentiment Survey further revealed that 70% of the European-Philippine business community plan to increase trade and investment in the next year. However, advancing reforms is imperative to sustain investor confidence, as 90% of respondents still face barriers, particularly due to complex taxation, customs inefficiencies, and regulatory inconsistencies in the Philippine business environment.

The government is actively modernizing policies to attract foreign investors through measures such as the Enhanced Fiscal Regime for Large-Scale Metallic Mining, designed to provide a predictable and transparent tax framework for investors; the Green Lanes for Strategic Investments, accelerating permit and licensing processes; and Konektadong Pinoy, which simplifies licensing, promotes infrastructure sharing, and allows new players to enter without a legislative franchise.

In addition, reforms in the financial and investment sectors strengthen the country’s investment appeal. The Capital Markets Efficiency Promotion Act (CMEPA) enhances market competitiveness and is expected to generate over ₱25 billion in revenue by 2030, while amendments to the Investors’ Lease Act allow foreign investors to lease private land for up to 99 years, providing greater certainty and flexibility for long-term investments.

“These reforms, alongside ongoing ease of doing business initiatives and the CREATE MORE Act, continue to improve the investment climate and reinforce investor confidence,” said Duarte. “The Philippines’ exit from the FATF Greylist is [also] a pivotal moment that significantly bolsters our international credibility,” he added.

The ECCP President stressed that “beyond these specific milestones, we recognize that the Ease of Doing Business is not defined by a single law, but by a continuous commitment to progress.” This requires the consistent efforts of agencies and sectors in dismantling procedural barriers for investors.

As a foreign chamber, Duarte said the ECCP’s advocacy extends beyond the Philippines and ASEAN, reflecting its commitment to strengthening European–Philippine engagement globally.

“Central to the Chamber’s agenda is driving increased trade and investments, improving the business environment, and championing sustainability and digitalization,” added Duarte. The ECCP also promotes the Green Economy Program and pushes for reforms such as the Construction Licensing for foreign contractors, and strengthening of the Anti Red-Tape and Ease of Doing Business Act, among others.

Guide to Doing Business in the Philippines

To showcase invaluable resources for businesses navigating the local landscape, the ECCP, DivinaLaw, and the Department of Trade and Industry-Board of Investments, unveiled the latest edition of its Doing Business in the Philippines Publication alongside key government officials and heads of European diplomatic missions.

This year’s edition introduces significant updates, including new chapters covering key sectors poised for growth in 2026, such as real estate, mining, renewable energy, fintech, and telecommunications.

“For us at the ECCP, improving the Ease of Doing Business is not just a goal; it is our central mission. Through persistent advocacy and our close collaboration with both government and industry, we seek to build a climate of predictability and confidence for every investor,” ECCP Executive Director Florian Gottein stated during the press conference.

The launch was joined by distinguished guests, including H.E. Massimo Santoro, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines; H.E. Christian Halaas Lyster, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Manila; Atty. Nilo T. Divina, DivinaLaw Managing Partner; Atty. Danny E. Bunyi, Senior Partner of Divina Law; Atty. Bobby G. Fondevilla, Executive Director of the Investment Assistance Center, Philippine Board of Investments; and Director Ernesto De Los Reyes, Jr. of the Investment Assistance Service, Philippine Board of Investments.