Foreign food and beverage (F&B) investors remain interested in expanding operations in the Philippines despite political uncertainties and global supply concerns, according to Food Industry Asia (FIA).
FIA Public Affairs Manager Anna Beatrice Baldonado said member companies continue to see strong growth potential in the Philippine market, citing the country’s large agri-food sector and workforce contribution.
A joint study by FIA, the Asean Food and Beverage Alliance, and Oxford Economics showed that the Philippines’ agri-food sector contributed $164.4 billion to the economy last year, accounting for about one-third of the country’s GDP. The sector also supported 18.8 million jobs, or 38 percent of the national workforce.
Baldonado said investors are considering expansion plans, including hiring more workers and increasing operations, although they are closely monitoring political developments in the country.
She noted that while foreign firms have raised concerns about the current political situation, there are no signs that companies are pulling back investment plans.
FIA is also working with regional and international groups to study the impact of global fuel disruptions and the ongoing Middle East conflict on food manufacturing. Among the challenges already affecting the industry are supply shortages and production delays.
Meanwhile, Mondelez International Philippines said its priority is to keep food products available, accessible, and affordable despite ongoing uncertainties.
The development highlights continued investor confidence in the Philippine food sector, which remains a major driver of economic activity and employment even amid domestic and global challenges.
