The Philippines is drawing renewed investment interest from Chinese companies involved in electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy, manufacturing and telecommunications infrastructure, according to Trade Secretary Cristina Roque.
Roque said she met with at least eight Chinese firms on the sidelines of the APEC Ministerial Meeting in Suzhou and Shanghai last week, where discussions focused on possible expansion projects and fresh investments in the Philippines.
Among the companies considering expansion is NWOW Technology, a Jiangsu-based electric motorcycle firm that has been operating in the Philippines since 2013. Roque said the company plans to expand its local manufacturing operations for electric motorcycles.
“We’re talking to them on how to move or expedite their investments in the Philippines. Once they expand, that’s also creating jobs for the country,” she said.
Roque also met with Shanghai Launch, an EV design, engineering and manufacturing firm that already has a partnership with Francisco Motors. Globally, Shanghai Launch has delivered more than 400 vehicle models, including new energy and commercial vehicles.
In renewable energy, GoodWe and Yude Solar expressed interest in introducing distributed rooftop solar and battery solutions for Philippine households.
Meanwhile, bearing manufacturer C&U is planning to expand its Philippine operations in Batangas, Cavite and Pampanga.
Roque likewise held talks with Guodong Group regarding potential opportunities in telecommunications infrastructure, smart city technologies and electric motorcycle battery-swapping systems.
