Vol. XXI, No. 160-A [ Business World Online ]
Saturday, March 15, 2008 | MANILA, PHILIPPINES
The Philippines is still within the investment map of European investors, particularly Mindanao.
In a statement, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) said it will meet with the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. to discuss business opportunities.
"We believe there are partnerships that can be made in Mindanao and the Davao City Chamber represents the biggest business grouping over there," said Henry Schumacher, ECCP executive vice-president.
Mr. Schumacher said the ECCP will also hold discussions with the Cagayan De Oro Chamber of Commerce and the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Davao chamber has 310 corporate and individual members involved in agriculture, construction, design, finance, health, information technology, real estate, tourism, and the utilities industries.
The European business group has about 700 member companies, of which only 10 have business operations in Mindanao.
Total investments in the Davao Region last year reached P9.18 billion, up 44% from commitments made in 2006. Foreign direct investments were also up by 144% to P45.7 million.
Davao City has also seen an increased arrival of expatriates, ECCP said. Established in 1968, the Davao City Chamber has helped provide members with channels for investment opportunities and a marketing service facility.
