French firms are stepping up their interest in the Philippine market amid ongoing EU-Philippines free trade agreement (FTA) talks and the launch of direct Air France flights between Manila and Paris. According to the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry, major French companies are looking to expand investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, defense, and retail.
Over 150 French firms already operate in the country, employing nearly 100,000 people. French officials see untapped potential, as the Philippines ranks only sixth among France’s ASEAN trade partners despite EUR 3 billion (USD 3.2 billion) in annual bilateral trade.
The newly launched direct flights are expected to boost trade and tourism, with Air France reporting strong outbound demand but working to grow inbound traffic. Officials from both sides are optimistic that the FTA, now heading into its third round of talks in June 2025, will enhance market access and replace the soon-to-expire GSP+ scheme.
(Source: BusinessWorld)
