UK execs out to drum up trade with PH

Trade officials and businessmen from the United Kingdom are now in town to drum up trade between the two countries.

The trade mission was organized by the British Embassy in Manila. Executives of nine UK firms on Thursday sat down with representatives from the Philippine government and the local private sector to explore opportunities in telecommunications, healthcare, education, energy, and intelligent building and design.

“There’s an urban challenge that we need to overcome… This is a great opportunity for business partnerships in the future as smart cities allow … sustainable innovation that improves lives,” UK Ambassador to the Philippines Stephen Lillie said during the event held at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Makati City.

“We are very excited about the opportunities here. I’ve spent two years traveling [throughout Southeast Asia], looking for the best market for us to start in,” said Dave Savage of MediaTech Design Group, an international consulting firm.

He said that the Philippines is on the top of his company’s list.

Trade Undersecretary Cristino L. Panlilio told representatives of the British firms that the country has become a more attractive investment and trade destination “because of its economic resilience.”