Philippine trade officials including representatives from the private sector, and their Japanese counterparts, convened at the 5th Japan-Philippines Industrial Cooperation Dialogue on March 10, 2023 in Makati City.
The Philippine delegation was headed by Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary for Competitiveness and Innovation, Dr. Rafaelita M. Aldaba, while the Japan delegation was headed by Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Director General for Trade Policy Bureau, Takehiko Matsuo.
The dialogue brought together public and private sector representatives from both countries to discuss ways to enhance bilateral industrial cooperation and economic relations, as well as business environment improvements.
Participants recognized the strength of Japan-Philippines industrial cooperation, including the priorities of each side, and the future directions of the cooperation. Both sides agreed that further cooperation is critical to enhance the development and transformation of the Philippine industries.
Focus of cooperation between the two countries is directed at four specific sectors, namely: automotive and electric vehicles, electronics and semiconductors industry development, aerospace industry development, and creative industries.
Participants shared their views about the current situation of the four priority industrial sectors of the Philippines, including new policy direction, business environment, and government support. According to them, further collaboration between public and private sectors of both countries would enhance the business environment in the Philippines, attract investments, and promote innovation.
Lastly, participants also shared their views about the startup landscape of each country and discussed various support measures for collaborations, such as connecting both countries’ startup ecosystems to drive economic growth. Both countries agreed to work towards holding the 1st joint Japan-Philippines startup event by the 3rd quarter of 2023
