DTI’s foreign trade unit books $76B investment pledges as of January

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Foreign Trade Service Corps (FTSC), has booked over $70 billion worth of foreign investment commitments as of January, cementing the Philippines’ position as a top destination for global investors in 2025.

In a news release on Friday, the DTI said the FTSC has actively engaged with investors on 247 investment leads and projects valued at over $76 billion or P4 trillion as of the first month of the year.

“This initiative is a core component of the DTI's global investment and trade promotion strategy,” it said.

The Trade Department said that of the 247 investment leads, 51 projects are in already advanced stages — 28 companies have either registered with Securities and Exchange Commission or are working closely with investment promotion agencies to finalize their entry into the Philippines, while 23 have commenced commercial operations. 

“These investments span key industries, including manufacturing, information technology and business process management, renewable energy, data centers, retail, agriculture, and telecommunications,” the DTI said.

The agency said its foreign trade service unit “remains focused on generating high-value investment leads, expanding market access for Philippine exporters, and strengthening trade partnerships.” —Ted Cordero/RF, GMA Integrated News