British Chamber outlines policy priorities ahead of 4th State of the Nation Address

FOREIGN businesses in the Philippines mark their expectations ahead of the 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The British Chamber of Commerce Philippines (BCCP) reiterated its priorities and support for the current initiatives of the administration, including the reduction of red tape, passage of key legislation, and further boosting foreign direct investment.

SUPPORT GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson (left) in an interview. PHOTO FROM BCCP

In an interview, BCCP Executive Vice Chair Chris Nelson cited key developments between the UK-Philippine trade, such as the launch of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (Jetco) meeting and the accession of the UK to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), to which the Philippines also expressed joining.

Nelson further noted that, “We see the Philippines as a very important market, not only in its own right, but a gateway into Southeast Asia through trading groups such as RCEP…We are very pleased to see that the Philippines is looking to join CPTPP, which the UK is already a member of…”

During the recently held Philippine-British Investment Forum in London on 27 June 2025, hosted by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in partnership with HSBC, BCCP, and Asian Consulting Group (ACG), the delegation promoted the incentives in the economic zone for the growing British business community.

Nelson cited this as an opportunity for the Philippines to diversify its trading partners, such as the UK, and noted that, “Based upon the recent PEZA visit and the interest level we see, we will continue trade and investment between the two countries to grow.” He also added that the Philippines’ macroeconomic performance with reduced inflation and continuous monetary policy easing will make the country an attractive destination for British and other foreign investors.

Ahead of the upcoming SONA, Nelson emphasized its support to assist the government’s initiatives against red tape, noting the Chamber as an ARTA Champion by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA). Further linking it to the Chamber’s key priority legislation, such as the Cybersecurity Act, E-Governance Act, Konektadong Pinoy Act, and Foreign Investors’ Long-Term Lease Act.

Nelson added, “We are encouraged by the open discussion we have between the officials. We appreciate the progress made on reducing red tape, and we look forward to seeing priority legislation passed in the 20th Congress.”

The priority legislation aligns with the Philippine priority agenda, such as digital transformation, ease of doing business, and promoting a more competitive business environment that will further boost the country’s foreign direct investment while also further increasing the UK-Philippine trade and investment.