The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) laid out its ambitious goals for 2025 and beyond during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on April 28, 2025, at the British Ambassador’s Residence.
With its membership surpassing 300, the Chamber’s vision for the future highlights its ongoing commitment to enhancing UK-Philippine trade relations and advocating for business-friendly reforms.
In his opening address, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, emphasized the strong, longstanding partnership between the British Embassy and BCCP.
Ambassador Beaufils reaffirmed the Embassy’s support for the Chamber’s role in championing British business interests, including in agriculture, UK pork exports, and facilitating local trade missions.
However, the focus of the event was on the Chamber’s plans for the coming years. BCCP Executive Chairman Chris Nelson outlined key objectives for 2024-2025, emphasizing the need for further liberalization of the economy and measures to improve the ease of doing business in the Philippines.
The Chamber plans to intensify its advocacy for reforms that support long-term, sustainable partnerships between the UK and the Philippines.
The BCCP’s roadmap for the future includes a continued focus on digital transformation. The Chamber is committed to pushing for the passage of key digitalization laws, including the E-Governance Law and cybersecurity measures, to make doing business in the Philippines more efficient and secure.
Additionally, the Chamber will continue its work on anti-red tape initiatives, ensuring that UK businesses can operate more smoothly in the country.
Nelson also highlighted the Chamber’s focus on helping UK SMEs expand their presence in the Philippines. The BCCP aims to facilitate business linkages between UK SMEs and local counterparts, fostering greater collaboration and mutual growth. The Chamber sees public-private partnerships as a crucial avenue for promoting long-term trade and investment in both countries.
“As we look toward 2025-2026, our priorities will include bolstering UK-Philippine trade through strategic support for UK SMEs, championing digitalization, and continuing to push for reforms that improve the business environment in the Philippines,” said Nelson. “We will remain steadfast in promoting UK trade, in close partnership with the British Embassy and the Department for Business and Trade.”
The AGM also honored key contributors to the Chamber’s success, including BCCP Ex-Officio Treasurer William Bailey and Former Board of Trustee and Treasurer Marie Antoniette Mariano. Their dedication to the Chamber’s mission was celebrated as a cornerstone of its continued growth.
Looking ahead, the British Chamber’s proactive plans signal a continued strengthening of UK-Philippine ties. The Chamber’s focus on advancing liberalization, fostering innovation, and supporting business development underscores its commitment to driving economic progress in both nations.
