Last 22, May 2025, The German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) successfully hosted the Economic Forum titled “Germany and the Philippines: Economic Ties Today and Tomorrow” featuring keynote speaker Dr. David Klebs, Economic Counsellor of the German Embassy. Commemorating Dr. Klebs’ three-year diplomatic service in the Philippines,. his address highlighted the current state and future direction of German-Philippine economic relations, grounded in a solid legal framework and driven by shared interests in trade, investment, and sustainable development.
Dr. Klebs emphasized the importance of ongoing trade facilitation mechanisms, such as the Philippines’ participation in the EU’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), which allows tariff-free access for a wide range of Philippine exports to Europe. He also noted that discussions are advancing toward a potential EU-Philippines Free Trade Agreement (FTA), aimed at further strengthening economic integration and market access between both parties.
He presented data showing steady growth in bilateral trade, with German companies active in industrial production, services, and business process outsourcing in the Philippines. High-level visits in 2023 and 2024 by leaders from both countries reinforced political support for deepening economic ties.
Trade promotion initiatives were also featured, including government-backed business missions in fields like renewable energy, digital health, and agricultural technology. He also cited financial instruments such as export credits and investment guarantees provided by the German government to encourage participation.
The forum further highlighted cooperation in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), such as the TESDA-GPCCI collaboration supporting workforce development. He also underscored the importance of the Germany-Philippines migration partnership in addressing labor market needs and advancing sustainable recruiting.
Looking ahead, Dr. Klebs discussed challenges Germany faces, such as geopolitical risks and protectionist trade trends, while advocating for economic reforms and diversification of supply chains. He positioned the Philippines as a promising partner due to its economic growth, skilled labor, democratic institutions, and recent liberalization policies.
The forum concluded with a focus on the potential for an EU-Philippines Free Trade Agreement, which would enhance market access, digital trade, intellectual property rights, and sustainable development cooperation.
We would like to thank our Premium Partners, Boehringer Ingelheim, BDO Unibank, PPI Pazifik Power, and TÜV Rheinland, for gracing us with their presence at the Economic Forum. Your continued support to GPCCI and its initiatives is invaluable in strengthening German-Philippine economic cooperation.