Beijing: The Philippine Embassy in Beijing has extended an invitation to German businesses operating in China to explore investment opportunities in the Philippines, particularly in the sectors of agriculture and automotive, including electric vehicles.

According to Philippines News Agency, the embassy, alongside the Philippine Trade and Investment Center, presented these opportunities during an exclusive forum organized in collaboration with the German Chamber of Commerce in North China and the AHK Greater China Diversification Desk on April 28. Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz highlighted the strategic location of the Philippines as a gateway to the ASEAN market and global trade routes, emphasizing the country's modern infrastructure resulting from the 'Build, Better, More' program.

The forum, organized with the assistance of the German Chamber of Commerce in North China, aimed at presenting opportunities for diversification to German firms. Ambassador FlorCruz underscored the Philippines' business-friendly reforms and initiatives, which facilitate ease of doing business and allow full foreign ownership in key industries.

Commercial Counsellor Glenn Pe±aranda emphasized the strong and longstanding partnership between the Philippines and Germany, noting that Germany is the Philippines' leading trading and investment partner within the European Union. He expressed the country's aspiration to become a regional hub for smart and sustainable manufacturing and services, leveraging its geographic location, natural resources, skilled labor force, and large domestic market.

The event featured both in-person and virtual participation, including representatives from the German Chamber of Commerce in Manila and Christopher Zimmer, Executive Director of AHK Philippines.