As part of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) group of countries, the Philippines is an important trading partner for New Zealand. The recently signed agreement establishing the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area opens doors for New Zealand businesses to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines.
In this section, you will find a country brief with an economic overview and highlighted business opportunities, and market research in key areas of focus for New Zealand companies doing business in the Philippines.
For a comprehensive guide to doing business in the Philippines and comparisons with other key ASEAN trading partners, see New Zealand Trade and Enterprise’s Doing business in Southeast Asia website.
Philippines country brief
The Philippines consists of some 7,000 islands – only 730 are inhabited and 11 account for most of the land area as well as population.
The economy is dependent on manufacturing, agriculture, forestry and fishing. Most industries are concentrated around Manila, the capital city
The Philippines has a predominantly young population with more than half the population aged under 24. Incomes in urban households are on average 2.5 times higher than in rural ones.
Dairy products dominate New Zealand exports to the Philippines.
