Highlighting growing opportunities in UK meat exports to the Philippines, BCCP and the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) successfully concluded a three-day UK meat trade mission from 18–20 November 2025. The delegation, led by AHDB International Trade Development Director Jonathan Eckley, included representatives from Dunbia, Foyle Food Group, and QK Meats, underscoring the UK’s interest in strengthening its agricultural trade footprint in Asia.

Preliminary data from the Department of Agriculture’s Trade System revealed that from January to September 2025, the Philippines imported 580,764 kilograms of UK beef and 15,372,030 kilograms of UK pork. AHDB also reported that the Philippines remains the second-largest market for UK pork exports in Asia, next only to China. UK meat and meat preparations exported to the country reached £29.9 million, with expectations of continued growth as demand for high-quality imported pork and beef rises.

Beyond agriculture, Nelson highlighted strong prospects in infrastructure development and cybersecurity, two sectors where the UK holds recognized global expertise. He cited the UK Government’s Mobilist program, which invested $10 million in the Maynilad Water Services IPO, as an example of expanding British participation in the Philippines’ water infrastructure sector.

He also pointed to the UK–Southeast Asia Tech Week 2025 held in Manila last March, which showcased British strengths in AI, cybersecurity, and fintech—signaling growing investor confidence in the Philippine digital economy. BCCP currently partners with cybersecurity firms CyberQ Group and NCC Group, both of which are active in supporting the country’s cybersecurity landscape.

UK–Philippines trade reached £3.0 billion in the four quarters ending Q2 2025, reflecting a 6.5% year-on-year increase and positioning the Philippines as the UK’s 59th largest trading partner. Nelson stressed that strengthening legislation will be essential to sustaining this upward economic trajectory.

“The Philippines is a good place to set up an entry point to Southeast Asia, and we have been encouraging British companies to explore the wider region,” Nelson said. “We are working very hard, but we want to see legislation passed—and we want to see those move forward.”

The amendment to the Investor’s Lease Act extends allowable land leases for foreign investors from 50 years to 99 years, a move expected to encourage long-term commitments in sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, renewable energy, logistics, and IT-BPM. The measure provides multinational firms with the security and flexibility needed for capital-intensive projects with long gestation periods, lowering investment risks and strengthening the Philippines’ appeal as a regional hub.

Equally significant is the institutionalization of e-governance, which promises more efficient, transparent, and accessible public services while reducing red tape. This reform is expected to bolster the country’s fast-growing digital economy, valued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) at ₱2.25 trillion in 2024, a 7.7% increase from the previous year.

BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson underscored that these reforms signal the administration’s proactive approach to legislation. “We have been a key advocate for this, we are an ARTA Champion and E-Governance will certainly assist that. These developments can be linked to further increasing the country’s digital trade that will encourage more investments in digital infrastructure, e-commerce, and other industries,” he said.

Nelson further highlighted the importance of passing the Cybersecurity Act to complement digital reforms and strengthen governance under the Konektadong Pinoy Act. These measures, he added, align with the Philippines’ efforts to diversify trade partnerships through initiatives such as the recently launched UK-Philippine Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) and its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), of which the UK is a member.

During BCCP’s Midyear Briefing, DTI International Trade Group Undersecretary Allan Gepty emphasized that JETCO has already established four sectoral working groups and secured access to USD 6.3 billion in UK Export Finance for infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital projects. He added that CPTPP membership would further boost reforms in digital trade, labor, and environment—resulting in higher-quality jobs and fresh investment inflows.

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) also welcomed the measures, noting that the extended lease terms will give multinational investors in economic zones long-term stability and confidence. “This landmark policy provides foreign investors the long-term security and flexibility they need for capital-intensive projects… This will help lower entry barriers, reduce investment risk, and make the Philippines a more attractive hub for global business,” PEZA said in a statement.

With these reforms, the Philippines is positioning itself not only as an FDI-friendly destination but also as a leader in digital governance and investor security in the region.

The Chamber emphasized that the law will help bridge the digital divide by expanding access to reliable connectivity across the archipelago, while at the same time fortifying cybersecurity through measures anchored on transparency and accountability. It also creates a more competitive business environment by encouraging greater investment opportunities in telecommunications and digital infrastructure, enabling stronger e-governance that improves public service delivery, and stimulating overall economic growth by driving the country’s digital economy.

“This will support the digital economy. We want to see the Philippines moving forward, with much more integrated connectivity,” said BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson.

The Chamber also underscored the need to fast-track complementary measures such as the E-Governance Act and Cybersecurity Act, which would reinforce the Konektadong Pinoy Act in building a future-ready digital Philippines.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) announced that the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) will be issued within 30 days, with opportunities for private sector inputs. The DICT reaffirmed its commitment that “the internet must be a right, not a privilege,” and emphasized urgency in closing the digital exclusion gap.

Nelson further highlighted that the Act opens stronger prospects for UK-Philippines cooperation in digital innovation, cybersecurity, technology transfer, and capacity building—leveraging the UK’s reputation as a global digital and cybersecurity hub.

British Chamber throws full support to President Marcos Jr.’s crackdown on anomalous projects, calling it a strong signal to investors that the Philippines is serious about transparency, accountability, and cutting red tape.

In his 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Marcos ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to review flood control projects from the past three years, citing reports of fraud, ghost projects, and substandard work. The Regional Project Monitoring Committee will likewise assess failures and irregularities.

Chris Nelson, BCCP Executive Director and Trustee, said the UK recognizes the importance of tackling corruption and inefficiency in infrastructure programs, especially given their impact on communities. He stressed that a transparent, accountable system strengthens the Philippines’ appeal to investors.

“The President was very clear about the effects of these projects on communities. We fully support the probe and the need for a clear, reliable environment for companies to invest,” Nelson said. “As an ARTA champion, the Chamber also urges the government to sign the e-Governance Act to streamline processes, cut red tape, and curb corruption.”

Nelson also welcomed the launch of the “Sumbong sa Pangulo” website, which allows citizens to report irregular projects directly to the government. He noted that such initiatives will benefit micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by improving efficiency and creating a fairer business environment.

In May 2024, BCCP was officially recognized as an Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) Champion, empowering the Chamber to collect business sector feedback and relay concerns directly to the government. Nelson emphasized that this public-private cooperation plays a vital role in addressing bureaucratic hurdles and bolstering investor trust in the Philippines.

The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) has expressed strong support for the Philippines’ ambition to become a regional hub for smart manufacturing, citing it as a promising avenue for deeper UK–Philippines economic cooperation.

Aligned with the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, this vision opens new opportunities to boost trade, innovation, and investment between the two countries.

BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson underscored these prospects at the 6th installment of the Chamber’s Trade and Connect series, “Smart, Secure, and Strategic: Building the New Age of Philippine Manufacturing.” The event followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push to position the country as a smart manufacturing hub through digital transformation—aimed at enhancing productivity, efficiency, and global competitiveness.

“We are very pleased to have representatives from PEZA, BCDA, and one of our platinum members, PMFTC. This reinforces the Philippines’ capability to present itself as a regional hub for smart manufacturing,” Nelson said. “As I have discussed with PEZA Director General Panga, upskilling the workforce and enacting cybersecurity legislation are vital. We need secure companies, a competitive workforce, and the right environment to attract investment.”

The Chamber’s advocacy was also evident during the Philippine-British Investment Forum in London on 27 June 2025, hosted by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in partnership with the BCCP. The forum showcased manufacturing opportunities in ecozones, which, as of December 2024, number 427 nationwide with 4,382 locator companies—79 of them in manufacturing.

Advanced manufacturing is identified as a priority sector, with strong growth potential in automotive and electric vehicles, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, aerospace, and electronics and semiconductors. PEZA is also pushing for enhanced fiscal incentives for Tier 3 projects in research and development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data centers, alongside workforce upskilling, localization, and promotion of Filipino talent globally.

These initiatives align closely with the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, which prioritizes eight sectors: Advanced Manufacturing, Creative Industries, Life Sciences, Clean Energy, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Professional and Business Services, and Financial Services. The UK has committed £4.3 billion in funding and R&D, with £2.8 billion allocated over the next five years to drive innovation and digitization.

“We know the Philippine workforce is skilled, but we must elevate those skills to stay competitive. At the same time, we must make it easier for companies to set up and thrive here,” Nelson emphasized.

The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP), in partnership with AppleOne Group, HSBC, SGV & Co., Pru Life UK, and Shang Properties, held its 2025 Midyear Economic Briefing, “Powering Growth Through Policy, Partnership, and Innovation,” on July 31. The Philippine Business and News served as a media partner.

The forum highlighted the positive outlook for UK-Philippine trade, driven by key trade agreements and a shared commitment to accelerating green growth and clean energy transition.

DTI: Trade Ties with UK Stronger Than Ever

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary for International Trade Group, Hon. Atty. Allan Gepty, reported that UK net foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Philippines reached US$764 million in 2024, the highest on record. Currently, 97 British-registered enterprises operate in the country’s economic zones, spanning BPO, aerospace, renewable energy, and advanced textiles.

“Solar investments alone are worth US$612.5 million, including Actis’s USD 600M Terra Solar project and Citicore’s EUR 9.8M Batangas plant,” Gepty said. He also underscored the importance of platforms like BCCP in fostering collaboration between government negotiators and industry leaders.

He further noted the impact of trade frameworks such as the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO), the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), and the Philippines’ interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

UK: Supporting the Philippines’ Green Transition

British Embassy Manila Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Mike Welch, CDA, A.I., emphasized the UK’s expertise and ongoing support for the Philippine Energy Plan and its clean energy shift.

“Our shared goal is to align with international best practices, optimize current structures, and build a strong pipeline across offshore wind projects,” Welch said.

He also highlighted UK Export Finance’s (UKEF) £5 billion coverage for sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure projects in the Philippines. BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson added that infrastructure and clean energy remain key priorities, noting the UK’s willingness to work collaboratively with other global investors to ensure the successful implementation of projects.

The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines lauded the government’s strong focus on e-governance and digital transformation as highlighted in President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA). BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson underscored the importance of passing priority measures such as the E-Governance Act, Konektadong Pinoy Act, and Cybersecurity Act to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure further and attract more foreign investments.

Nelson cited the completion of the National Fiber Backbone and the expansion of the eGov app—now offering over 40 government services—as major steps towards improving efficiency, transparency, and ease of doing business. He also welcomed the United Nations’ recognition of the Philippines with the UN E-Government Award, noting it as a clear signal to investors of the country’s progress in digital governance.

“The Philippines is on the right track, but meaningful reforms must continue,” Nelson said. “We strongly support the passage of key legislation that will reinforce the country’s digital transformation, enhance cybersecurity, and ultimately drive economic growth.”

The Philippine Business and News supports the event as a media partner, while the representatives from the public and private sectors will provide insights into the fiscal policy roadmap designed to stimulate greater foreign direct investment in key sectors such as infrastructure, renewables, and PPPs. Another key area will be the Philippines’ trade diversification strategy, amid global trade and tariff uncertainties, highlighting key developments in Philippine-UK trade, including the launch of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO), participation in the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), and the country’s intent to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). With the UK’s recent accession to the CPTPP, these initiatives are expected to increase market access in the region.

Additionally, the briefing will cover the legislative agenda under the 20th Congress. The Chamber remains firm in its call for the approval of its three key priority bills: the E-Governance Act and Konektadong Pinoy Act, both of which have garnered strong backing from stakeholders, and the Cybersecurity Act, driven by the urgent need to address rising cyberattacks across sectors. The Chamber also recognized that all three legislation will support the country’s digital transformation agenda and facilitate a streamlined approach to businesses wanting to start business in the Philippines. 

Meanwhile, BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson noted that, “The British Chamber will remain at the forefront of supporting key legislation to continue opening up the economy while promoting multiple areas of cooperation. This aligns with our goal in further increasing the UK-PH trade and the overall drive to boost its competitiveness in Southeast Asia.”

The British Chamber has consistently collaborated with government agencies and the private sector in addressing key areas such as inflation management, food security, and enhancing industry competitiveness across sectors like cybersecurity, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, among others. The Chamber remains committed to further strengthening UK-Philippine trade relations and contributing to the country’s broader economic growth.

Interested participants may register here:
https://britcham.org.ph/events/2025-midyear-briefing-powering-growth-through-policy-partnership-and-innovation/.

In a recent interview, British Chamber of Commerce Philippines Vice Chair Chris Nelson stated his “3 wishes” for the Marcos Administration, namely: (a) reducing red tape to further, assist on ease of doing husiness initiatives, (b), passage of key legislation such as the Cybersecurity Act, E-Governance Act, and Open Access in Data Transmission Act, and (c) further reduce restrictions on foreign investment.

The Chamber recognizes the significance of the following legislative priorities in creating a more competitive business environment. The Cybersecurity Act is designed to bolster the nation’s defense against cyber threats, the E-Governance Act complements the government’s digitalization efforts by institutionalizing streamlined government operations, and the Open Access in Data Transmission Act is expected to broaden access to digital infrastructure. These measures collectively address critical infrastructure needs that British and other foreign investors and businesses operating in the Philippines consider essential for sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

Looking ahead, the BCCP is set to host a significant Mid-year Briefing event featuring multiple government agencies. “We have an event on the 31st of July and we’ll have representatives from the DOF, DICT, and DTI,” Nelson announced, demonstrating the Chamber’s role in facilitating public-private dialogue on critical economic issues.

The British Chamber’s advocacy efforts are supported by its engagement with key government agencies. “We have very good connections [and] we have regular interactions.” This year, the Chamber has facilitated meetings with the economic team, namely, with the Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque, and Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan, underscoring BCCP’s commitment to fostering dialogue on economic development.

The Chamber’s close ties with the Philippine and the UK government and private sector underscores its commitment to advancing policy reforms that aims to enhance the Philippine economy’s competitiveness and further strengthen bilateral economic ties. Nelson further commended the current initiatives of the administration, citing that, “We are encouraged by the open discussion we have between the officials. We appreciate the progress made on reducing red tape, and we look further to see priority legislation passed in the 20th Congress. Overall, it is a good performance and we look forward to working with the Philippine government further particularly to boost trade and investment between our two countries.”

BCCP Executive Chairman Chris Nelson noted that, “Oil is a continuing risk, particularly for the Philippines, which imports all of its oil and could impact transportation costs. In the current context, it has certainly eased. If you widen this to look across other areas, all the central banks will be looking to manage and, obviously, further reduce interest rates. Very good news that we have a ceasefire—it’s very important that it holds and that we keep oil prices and the actual supply out of that area running smoothly.”

Marking a 6-year low at 1.3% in May 2025, inflation continues to ease due to slower increases on housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels. Meanwhile, food inflation also remained at 0.7% in the same period, in comparison to 6.1% in May 2024. This signalled the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to deliver its second straight rate cut for the year. BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona noted that,

“On balance, the Monetary Board sees the need for a more accommodative monetary policy stance. Emerging risks to inflation from rising geopolitical tensions and external policy uncertainty require close monitoring…”

Ahead of the upcoming Philippine-British Investment Forum on 27 June 2025 hosted by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), in partnership with the British Chamber and HSBC, the delegation visited the UK Department for Business and Trade and discussed investment opportunities in multiple areas such as semiconductor industry and quantum technologies, among others.

(Visit to the Department for Business and Trade with PEZA, BCCP, and ACG)

The potential impacts of global tensions and the US reciprocal tariffs should be seen as an opportunity to diversify the Philippines’ trade partners, as reiterated by Nelson, citing the recent inaugural Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting, to help address market barriers and establish a sectoral focused approach to agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, and overall trade promotion.

Nelson also mentioned that the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) to which the UK has recently joined, will further elevate its bilateral trade relations, which now stands at £3.0 billion in the four quarters to the end of Q4 2024.

“UK companies are looking at opportunities in Southeast Asia and in ways where they can do possible trade investment. In that context, we have to keep moving forward on liberalizing the economy,” Nelson said, noting that this will support existing and upcoming regulatory developments to further liberalize the Philippine economy.