Philippines: visit by Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy
Published 24 June 2014
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0.1 Summary
Productive first visit of George Freeman MP. Meetings with government and business leaders generates high level interest in UK investments. British Business Centre in Manila opened. Core prosperity messages on openness to investment promoted. Energy delegation of five businesses accompanies.
0.2 Detail
George Freeman MP, made his first visit to the Philippines from 16-19 June. In a packed programme, he engaged top level commercial and prosperity contacts in government and business, as well as the British business community.
0.3 Investment
One focus was inward investment. Mr Freeman established a strong rapport with some of the country’s most senior business leaders and discussed potential opportunities in the UK.
0.4 Business Climate
At meetings with the Secretaries of Trade and Energy and an Undersecretary (Minister of State) of Health, Mr. Freeman emphasised core messages on UK opportunities and openness to foreign investment, infrastructure development and transparency.
The appointment of a PM’s Trade Envoy has been well received, and gave a powerful platform for our messages. As well as positive signals during the meetings with government, Mr Freeman received widespread press, radio and online coverage, including a lead front-page article in the country’s main business paper.
0.5 Business Centre
Mr. Freeman formally opened the British Business Centre in Manila, which will provide an extensive range of services to UK SMEs.High level engagement from Lord Green and Mr Freeman has been a major help to the Chamber.
0.6 Energy
The five energy companies accompanying Mr Freeman were a tangible symbol of UK commitment, particularly following Shell’s announcement earlier in June of a $150m refinery upgrade. With expertise in engineering, risk management and energy efficiency across the oil and gas and renewable sectors, the companies received a full programme of support and activities from UKTI and the Chamber.
0.7 Comment
In markets such as the Philippines, the involvement of a Trade Envoy representing David Cameron makes a significant difference to our commercial agenda. It is seen in the country as a sign of real high level commitment and support.
0.8 Disclaimer
The purpose of the FCO Country Update(s) for Business (”the Report”) prepared by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is to provide information and related comment to help recipients form their own judgments about making business decisions as to whether to invest or operate in a particular country. The Report’s contents were believed (at the time that the Report was prepared) to be reliable, but no representations or warranties, express or implied, are made or given by UKTI or its parent Departments (the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS)) as to the accuracy of the Report, its completeness or its suitability for any purpose. In particular, none of the Report’s contents should be construed as advice or solicitation to purchase or sell securities, commodities or any other form of financial instrument. No liability is accepted by UKTI, the FCO or BIS for any loss or damage (whether consequential or otherwise) which may arise out of or in connection with the Report.