UK–Philippines trade prospects remain upbeat as the Joint Economic and Trade Committee enters its second year as a formal government forum, signaling deeper economic alignment between the two countries, a British official said.
Iain Frenkiel, director for trade and investment at the British Embassy in Manila, said JETCO has become a key platform for advancing cooperation in priority sectors shared by both governments, even as global economic conditions remain uncertain.
Speaking at the “Forecasting 2026: UK-PH Economic Perspectives” forum, Frenkiel said UK engagement in the Philippines is focused on infrastructure, renewable energy, technology and cybersecurity, healthcare, defense and industrial manufacturing, as well as financial and professional services.
“JETCO, which was launched last year, is now entering its second year as a government forum,” Frenkiel said. “As the business and trade team in the Embassy, we focus on sectors aligned with the UK government’s industrial strategy, which also match Philippine government priorities.”
He added that hands-on support for UK companies entering the Philippine market remains central to the Embassy’s work, particularly as investor interest continues to build.
Frenkiel cited a packed calendar of trade and investment activities, starting with the Great British Festival in Bonifacio Global City this weekend, followed by Southeast Asia Tech Week in Manila on February 9–10. The Embassy is also preparing for the March launch of a planned network of Filipino buyers of UK consumer products.
Later in the year, the UK will host an ASEAN–UK business forum and participate in London Tech Week, alongside major ASEAN economic meetings. A second JETCO meeting may be held alongside the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting, with business summits led by the UK–ASEAN Business Council expected in November.
Despite global headwinds, Frenkiel said the Philippines’ economic fundamentals remain strong, citing solid growth prospects, favorable demographics, and ongoing reform momentum.
