German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier threw his weight behind the swift completion of the European Union-Philippines Free Trade Agreement (FTA), signaling stronger investor interest in the Philippines and deeper economic cooperation as global trade patterns continue to shift.
Following bilateral talks with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday, Steinmeier said countries with shared interests must strengthen partnerships amid growing geopolitical and economic uncertainties.
“In a global environment that is undergoing major transformation, countries that share similar interests, as do the Philippines and Germany, need to work more closely together,” he said.
The German leader described the ongoing EU-Philippines FTA negotiations as a key priority, expressing hope that the agreement can be finalized soon to unlock greater trade flows and attract more European investments.
“We hope that the agreement can be concluded speedily and that our economic exchange will continue to intensify, so that we will see more European—and in particular German—investments in the Philippines,” Steinmeier said.
His remarks come as the Philippines seeks to diversify trade partnerships and draw more foreign capital into manufacturing, infrastructure, renewable energy and technology sectors. A completed FTA would provide investors with greater market access and regulatory predictability, potentially strengthening the country’s competitiveness within Southeast Asia.
Steinmeier also highlighted the growing footprint of German businesses in the Philippines, noting that around 300 companies affiliated with the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry operate across industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and banking to logistics and aviation.
Beyond trade, Germany signaled plans to expand labor cooperation with the Philippines. While Filipino healthcare workers remain in high demand, Steinmeier said Berlin sees opportunities in technical and skilled professions, provided migration arrangements deliver benefits to both countries.
The German president likewise pledged support for the Philippines as it prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026, underscoring Berlin’s broader commitment to economic, labor and strategic engagement with Manila.
