Recognizing the opportunities in the growing infrastructure and development projects in the Philippines, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), the national trade promotion agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia spearheaded the Market Immersion Mission to the Philippines. The mission took place from March 12 to 15, 2024, covering two cities-Davao and Manila.
Ms. Noor Ezwaneehe Ahmad, Head of Delegation from MATRADE, mentioned that the mission involves the participation of five mid-tier Malaysian companies across diverse sectors, encompassing building materials, construction services, and renewable energy. These companies consist of Gading Kencana Sdn Bhd, Shorefield Sdn Bhd, Konsortium URW Sdn Bhd, CMC Engineering Sdn Bhd, Ranhill Bersekutu Sdn Bhd, and Wei Dat Steel Wire Sdn Bhd.
According to MATRADE Trade Commissioner in Manila Intan Zalani, “This mission will provide an enormous opportunity for Malaysian companies to establish their presence in the Philippine market, and expand key business relationships. With emerging infrastructure projects with focus on smart cities and sustainability initiatives as well as the booming construction industry in the Philippines, this mission will offer valuable prospects for Malaysian-made products and services that are synonymous with quality and compliance with international standards”.
MATRADE, through its Manila office coordinated 30 one-to-one business meetings and engagements with leading importers and potential partners. Complementing this program arranged for the Malaysian companies is a seminar on Doing Business with Malaysia which will be held in Davao, site visit to National Government Administrative Centre in New Clark City.
As a partner at the Philippine World Building and Construction Expo (WORLDBEX) 2024 in Manila, the delegates had networking sessions with relevant authorities, associations and industry players. This is part of MATRADE’s efforts to familiarize the Malaysian companies with rules and regulations on doing business in the Philippines.
During the networking dinner held at the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila alongside the event, the Ambassador of Malaysia to the Philippines, Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, stated that the Embassy is committed to facilitating Malaysian businesses access to the Philippine market as part of the effort to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the Philippines. He added that, “Together, we can create more opportunities for development and growth for both of our countries, as we, as a region, march forth in our pursuit for economic and social betterment of our people”.