British Columbia and Philippines
The Philippines has been one of the most dynamic economies in the East Asia and Pacific region, characterized by increasing urbanization, a large and young population, and strong consumer demand. This economic dynamism is further supported by a vibrant labour market and robust remittances. While domestic consumption accounts for the largest share of its GDP, the country is also a significant exporter of electronic components and labour.
Trade & Investment Highlights
- The Philippines is a priority market for trade and investment in B.C.’s Trade Diversification Strategy.
- The Philippines is an important partner under Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. In February 2024, Canada officially opened the new Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO), which consists of a mobile team working directly with Canadian diplomatic missions, stakeholders, and decision-makers to advance mutual trade objectives for the sector.
- The Philippines has one sovereign wealth fund, the Maharlika Investment Fund, with total assets of $2.0 billion.
- In 2024, the Philippines was the 9th largest destination for B.C. exports, receiving 0.9% of B.C.’s commodity exports, totaling $487 million.
Philippines at a Glance
Monetary figures are in USD
Opportunity for Foreign Investors and B.C. Exporters
Trade & Investment Resources
For B.C. Businesses
For International Businesses
Latest News And Stories
How We Help
- Assist in commercial location identification and site selection.
- Provide information on transportation infrastructure and logistics gateways.
- Offer introductions to sector associations, industries and provide cluster insight.
- Facilitate understanding and solutions for talent, skilled workforce and labour mobility
- Facilitate engagement with professional advisors on legal, compliance and tax matters
- Help navigating and offering referrals within government agencies on First Nations, business and regulatory processes.
- Identify high potential investment opportunities and offer industry insight.
- Introductions to sector associations and local industry contacts.
- Introductions to companies seeking investments to expand.
- Provide knowledge on local innovation hubs and connections to entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Introductions to local venture capital networks.
- Market entry assistance in international markets.
- Match buyers and sellers in local and foreign markets.
- Validate the potential of products in new international markets.
- Assist in navigating government export programs and financial supports.
- Strategic introductions to prospective buyers and partners in foreign markets.
- Participate in relevant international trade missions and events, and inbound buyer visits.
- Provide insight and advice on how to leverage trade agreements and overcome trade barriers.
- Enable access to trade representatives in foreign markets for on-the-ground assistance.
- Advice and coaching on how to prepare for successful export development and market entrance.
Trade & Investment Offices
- Phillipines
Manila
British Columbia’s trade and investment office located in Manila provides direct access for B.C. companies into the Philippines and other countries in the ASEAN economic region. Our experienced trade and investment professionals will help you network and capitalize on shared business opportunities in Southeast Asia.
Manila Office:
Embassy of Canada
Levels 6-8, Tower 2, RCBC Plaza
6819 Ayala Avenue
Makati City 1200
Contact our Trade and Investment Representatives. Our team welcomes your inquiries:
Managing Director, ASEAN
Commercial Officer
Commercial Assistant
Commercial Assistant
Connect With Our International Network
Our Trade and Investment Representatives can help you establish the right connections, participate in events and tradeshows, explore programs and initiatives, and more. Connect with an expert near you.