DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, wearing glasses and a red Filipiniana top, speaks at a lectern with a microphone during the Philippines-France Business Forum.


Makati City, Philippines—The Philippines is actively courting increased French investment in high-growth sectors, offering attractive incentives and a streamlined business environment, according to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque. Speaking at the Philippines-France Business Forum on April 11, Secretary Roque emphasized the country’s commitment to strengthening its economic ties with France and outlined specific industries ripe for collaboration.

“Minister Laurent Saint-Martin’s visit is not only a testament to the robust and growing partnership between our two nations—it also signals a shared commitment to transform our economic relationship into one that drives innovation, sustainability, and inclusive prosperity. By leveraging our complementary strengths, we can unlock vast opportunities in sectors where French expertise and Philippine priorities align,” said the DTI chief.

Building on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s direct encouragement to French businesses during a courtesy call, Secretary Roque highlighted key areas where French expertise aligns with Philippine development priorities. These priority areas include information technology-business process management, software development, healthcare information management, and the creative industries.

Secretary Roque specifically emphasized the substantial potential for French involvement in the Philippines’ manufacturing sector, especially in aerospace, automotive, and electronics, where the country seeks to enhance its capabilities. Furthermore, she pointed to compelling opportunities within sustainability-related ventures, including green energy development, food security, and energy security.

Secretary Roque also underscored the Philippines’ resilient economy, young and skilled workforce, and strategic location in Asia as key competitive advantages that make the country an ideal destination for investment.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque, in a red Filipiniana pantsuit, shakes hands with a male French delegate (likely Minister Laurent Saint-Martin) during the Philippines-France Business Forum, posing for a group photo with other Filipino and French officials in front of the Philippine and French flags.

“Our government is steadfast in creating the conditions necessary for your success. The partnership between France and the Philippines is already well-established, but we are fully committed to elevating this relationship to new heights through strategic cooperation and mutual trust,” Secretary Roque reaffirmed.

Reiterating the DTI’s proactive stance, Secretary Roque declared, “The Department of Trade and Industry stands ready to provide comprehensive and responsive assistance to French enterprises seeking to invest in the Philippines. I urge you to take full advantage of this opportunity. Our network, including the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Paris, is fully equipped to guide and support your ventures every step of the way.”

To further incentivize French investment, Secretary Roque highlighted recent economic reforms aligned with the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision of positioning the Philippines as a reliable and strategic investment hub in Asia. Key among these is the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy Act, which expands the range of tax and fiscal incentives available to investors.

The Philippine government has also amended the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, Foreign Investments Act, Public Service Act, and Renewable Energy Act to foster a more competitive and investor-friendly climate.

To address investor concerns, Secretary Roque announced ongoing efforts in collaboration with national and local government units to improve the ease of doing business and tackle energy cost challenges. This commitment aims to create a more sustainable and cost-effective operational environment for foreign investors. ♦

Date of Release: 14 April 2025

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