The German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) expressed strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 2025 State of the Nation Address, commending the administration’s emphasis on ease of doing business, workforce development, and climate action—areas where Germany and the Philippines share strategic alignment.
“These are shared priorities where German businesses are eager to contribute, through sustainable investments, technical cooperation, and long-term partnerships that support a more competitive and climate-resilient Philippines,” said GPCCI president Marie Antoniette Mariano in a press statement.
“These priorities strongly align with the values and long-term commitments of the German business community in the Philippines. They reflect areas where we are not only invested, but where we are also eager to do more: through innovation, technology, and strategic partnerships that deliver meaningful and inclusive impact.
“As we deepen our engagement, we also emphasize the importance of transparency and good governance in fostering a stable and attractive investment climate,” she added.
Record-high trade and investments
Philippine government data show that in 2023, Germany ranked as the country’s 11th largest trading partner, with trade volumes exceeding $2 billion in both directions. Philippine exports to Germany reached $2.46 billion in 2024, while imports from Germany stood at around $2.13 billion.
Foreign direct investment (FDI) from Germany soared to a historic high of $149.89 million in 2023—the largest annual figure since 2005. German investments approved in the Philippines during the first nine months of 2023 totaled ₱393.9 billion (approximately $7 billion), making Germany the top foreign source of approved investments for that period.
Business missions in key growth sectors
Following successful delegations in the Energy and MedTech sectors earlier this year, the Chamber is preparing to welcome a high-level delegation in Water Technologies later in 2025. These missions aim to facilitate partnerships that address critical challenges while opening opportunities in innovation and sustainability.
In addition, the Chamber is working closely with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to co-certify technical training programs. This initiative aims to boost the skills of the Filipino workforce, particularly in fields related to digital transformation and emerging technologies.
German companies in the country offer the Philippines a valuable springboard for inclusive growth. Among them are Siemens, Deutsche Bank, Bayer, Bosch, and Lufthansa. Siemens, in particular, is leading efforts to modernize Philippine manufacturing with Industry 4.0 technologies, including robotics and augmented reality.
Partnership for a future-ready, climate-smart economy
With the Philippines prioritizing green energy and a circular economy, GPCCI reiterated its readiness to support the country’s climate goals while promoting sustainable job creation. “Germany brings proven strengths in infrastructure, digitalization, and vocational training, all of which are vital to inclusive growth,” the Chamber said in the same press statement.
The Chamber also underscored the role of technical and vocational education in bridging workforce gaps and aligning with the needs of modern industry. Ongoing cooperation between TESDA and Germany’s Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training enhances workforce readiness in digital and green sectors.
GPCCI is the official representative of German businesses in the Philippines. As part of the global AHK network with 150 offices in 93 countries, GPCCI connects around 300 member companies and supports market entry, business development, and strategic partnerships across the country.
