Latest news with #PhilippineChamberofCommerceandIndustry
3 days ago
- Business
Oman-Philippines ties on good ground: Ambassador
Ambassador of Philippines to Oman, H E Raul Hernandez sees a bright future for the vibrant relationship between Oman and the Philippines. 'Oman is fast becoming my second home. At last year's National Day celebration, we proudly served Philippine mangoes – known for being among the sweetest in the world. We plan to continue this tradition,' he tells Anirban Ray in an exclusive chat Oman and Philippines have shared a long-standing relationship that is cordial, economically beneficial, culturally vibrant, and politically deep-rooted in mutual trust. Taking over as the new ambassador of Philippines to Oman, H E Raul Hernandez has a series of cultural, business-related, and people-to-people contact events lined up. This in view of the fact that the two countries have a long-standing relationship based on mutual respect, cultural exchanges and economic ties, he said. Both nations have a history of trade and co-operation dating back to centuries. In recent times, Philippines and Oman have continued to strengthen their relationship through diplomatic dialogue and collaboration in various fields, such as energy, infrastructure and art. The appointment of a new ambassador signals a commitment to further strengthening these ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration. Excerpts from an interview with H E Hernandez: What is your immediate focus as Ambassador of the Philippines to Oman? Since assuming office in September 2023, my focus has been clear and multifaceted. First, I am committed to strengthening economic diplomacy between the Philippines and Oman. Oman is currently our 65th largest trading partner, and in 2024, we saw key trade items exchanged such as electrical machinery, mineral fuels, and edible preparations from the Philippines, while Oman's exports included ores, cereals, and similar machinery components. We also aim to introduce more of our agricultural products into the Omani market – bananas, pineapples, tuna, and desiccated coconuts, among them. On the investment front, we are working to finalise agreements related to reciprocal protection of investments, double taxation avoidance, and agricultural and fisheries cooperation. A proposed MoU between the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) is also in the pipeline. Moreover, we are promoting the Philippines as an ideal investment and tourism destination. I'm pleased to hear from Omanis who have already visited the Philippines and enjoyed their stay. We hope to see more such visits through planned familiarisation tours. Secondly, connecting with our Filipino community in Oman is a key priority. With more than 48,000 Filipinos residing here, spread across various professions – from healthcare and engineering to hospitality and household services – I've been keen to listen to their experiences and extend embassy services where needed. Their stories of success and gratitude for the opportunities Oman has given them are truly inspiring. Lastly, I've dedicated efforts to deepening ties with the Omani community. We're celebrating 45 years of diplomatic relations with Oman this year, and I see this as an opportunity to express our gratitude for the friendship and support the Sultanate has shown. Oman is fast becoming my second home. At last year's National Day celebration, we proudly served Philippine mangoes – known for being among the sweetest in the world – and we plan to continue this tradition. How many visas were issued to Omanis who travelled to the Philippines last year? Technically, Omanis don't require a visa for visits to the Philippines of up to 30 days. In 2024, over 4,000 Omanis visited the Philippines, a number that doesn't include expatriates residing in Oman who also travelled to our country. Most of them visited for tourism, to enjoy our famous Filipino hospitality, food, and beautiful coastlines. Destinations like Boracay and Palawan remain top choices. We're also seeing increased interest in wellness tourism, thanks to our world-class health centers offering excellent diagnostics and care. Yes, we are working on a familiarisation tour for Omanis and expatriates in Oman. Also, Oman Air's direct daily flights to the Philippines make travel convenient and position our country as an ideal leisure and wellness destination. Are there any new initiatives/projects to be undertaken by the Embassy or Philippines in Oman this year? Yes, several memoranda of understanding between the Philippines and Oman are under discussion in fields of mutual interest. We're also excited about celebrating the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations with cultural and business initiatives, possibly featuring performances from Filipino talent. We aim to strengthen our visibility in Oman through participation in local government-led programmes that showcase Filipino products, talents, and culture. Are there plans for new Filipino schools in Muscat? Currently, the Philippine School in Oman has over 900 students and enjoys strong support from both, Filipino and expatriate, families. While there are no formal expansion plans yet from the school administration, we remain open to opportunities. We are also hopeful that the Omani government may one day provide land for a new and larger campus. Education is a key pillar of our commitment to Oman's future. What's the latest on investments, trade, and business exchanges in Oman? Today, there are over sixty Filipino-owned micro and small enterprises in Oman, primarily in food and retail – industries that reflect our culture's love for shared meals. These businesses not only serve our community but introduce Filipino cuisine to other cultures here. Oman's investor-friendly policies have helped our entrepreneurs thrive. Additionally, we are promoting the Philippines' sovereign wealth fund and are exploring potential investment collaborations in Oman. Progress in this area has been encouraging. How would you describe the people-to-people relationship between Oman and the Philippines? The people-to-people connection between our two nations is warm, dynamic, and growing. Filipinos and Omanis have built meaningful friendships over the years, evident not just during embassy events but also through community initiatives. A recent vaccine drive, where many of the nurses assisting Filipino clients were Omani, was a touching example of cooperation and solidarity. Filipino professionals – doctors, nurses, engineers, teachers – are respected contributors to Omani society. We continue to empower them, ensuring they feel supported in their roles, and proud of the impact they make here. These human connections are the foundation of our enduring partnership with Oman.
Mid East Info
6 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Dubai Chamber of Commerce organises 180 bilateral business meetings in Manila to strengthen trade relations between Dubai and the Philippines
Salem Al Shamshi: 'Our trade mission to the Philippines comes as part of our ongoing drive to enable meaningful international expansion for local companies and strengthen investment ties with business communities worldwide.' Non-oil trade between Dubai and the Philippines reached a value of AED 3.1 billion in 2024. A total of 2,154 businesses from the Philippines were registered as active members of Dubai Chamber of Commerce at the end of 2024, reflecting annual growth of 37%. Dubai, UAE – Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has successfully organised 180 bilateral business meetings between companies from Dubai and their counterparts in the Philippines. The meetings in Manila marked the first stop of the chamber's trade mission to Southeast Asia, which includes both the Philippines and Thailand, and forms part of the 'New Horizons' initiative aimed at supporting the global expansion of local companies into promising international markets. The trade mission to the Philippines featured representatives from 17 private sector companies in Dubai, spanning a diverse range of sectors including food and beverages, agriculture, automotive, construction, electronics, hospitality, human resources and services, industrial lubricants, investment, and perfume retail. Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, said: 'We are dedicated to fostering new avenues for trade between Dubai and high-potential global markets. Our trade mission to the Philippines comes as part of our ongoing drive to enable meaningful international expansion for local companies and strengthen investment ties with business communities worldwide. These efforts enhance Dubai's position as a global trade hub and contribute to the sustained growth of its non-oil exports.' As part of the mission, Dubai Chamber of Commerce hosted a business forum in Manila entitled 'Doing Business with the Philippines' The event was hosted in collaboration with the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Manila, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Philippines Board of Investment, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Export Marketing Bureau, and the Consulate General of the Philippines in Dubai. The forum featured remarks from H.E. Mohamed Obaid Al Qataam Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines; H.E. Enunina V. Mangio, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Ms. Ma. Anna Kathryna Yu-Pimentel, Special Envoy to the United Arab Emirates for Trade and Investment. During the forum, which was attended by 314 participants, Dubai Chambers signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to enhance cooperation, strengthen bilateral trade relations, and explore new areas of collaboration between the business communities in Dubai and the Philippines. Dubai Chambers also delivered a presentation showcasing Dubai's strategic advantages as a global business hub, highlighting potential areas for cooperation between the two markets and the competitive value proposition Dubai offers to Filipino companies. Non-oil trade between Dubai and the Philippines reached a value of AED 3.1 billion in 2024. The number of active Filipino companies registered with Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached 2,154 by the end of last year, representing year-over-year growth of approximately 37%. Dubai Chamber of Commerce has identified several high-potential export sectors from Dubai to the Philippines, including leather, car parts, fertilisers, flat-rolled iron/steel, organic chemicals, and flooring materials. The chamber also highlighted promising sectors for Dubai-based companies to invest in within the Philippines, including tourism, agri-industries, telecommunications, logistics, and healthcare. About Dubai Chamber of Commerce: Established in 1965, Dubai Chamber of Commerce continues to represent, support, and protect the interests of the business community in Dubai, create a stimulating business environment, and promote the emirate as a global business hub. The chamber is one of three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, which was restructured under a decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Dubai and the Philippines to to strengthen trade relations
Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has successfully organised 180 bilateral business meetings between companies from Dubai and their counterparts in the Philippines. The meetings in Manila marked the first stop of the chamber's trade mission to Southeast Asia, which includes both the Philippines and Thailand, and forms part of the 'New Horizons' initiative aimed at supporting the global expansion of local companies into promising international markets. The trade mission to the Philippines featured representatives from 17 private sector companies in Dubai, spanning a diverse range of sectors including food and beverages, agriculture, automotive, construction, electronics, hospitality, human resources and services, industrial lubricants, investment, and perfume retail. Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, said: 'We are dedicated to fostering new avenues for trade between Dubai and high-potential global markets.' 'Our trade mission to the Philippines comes as part of our ongoing drive to enable meaningful international expansion for local companies and strengthen investment ties with business communities worldwide. These efforts enhance Dubai's position as a global trade hub and contribute to the sustained growth of its non-oil exports.' As part of the mission, Dubai Chamber of Commerce hosted a business forum in Manila entitled 'Doing Business with the Philippines' The event was hosted in collaboration with the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Manila, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Philippines Board of Investment, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Export Marketing Bureau, and the Consulate General of the Philippines in Dubai. The forum featured remarks from Mohamed Obaid Al Qataam Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines; Enunina V Mangio, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Ma. Anna Kathryna Yu-Pimentel, Special Envoy to the United Arab Emirates for Trade and Investment. During the forum, which was attended by 314 participants, Dubai Chambers signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to enhance cooperation, strengthen bilateral trade relations, and explore new areas of collaboration between the business communities in Dubai and the Philippines. Dubai Chambers also delivered a presentation showcasing Dubai's strategic advantages as a global business hub, highlighting potential areas for cooperation between the two markets and the competitive value proposition Dubai offers to Filipino companies. Non-oil trade between Dubai and the Philippines reached a value of Dhs3.1 billion in 2024. The number of active Filipino companies registered with Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached 2,154 by the end of last year, representing year-over-year growth of approximately 37 per cent. Dubai Chamber of Commerce has identified several high-potential export sectors from Dubai to the Philippines, including leather, car parts, fertilisers, flat-rolled iron/steel, organic chemicals, and flooring materials. The chamber also highlighted promising sectors for Dubai-based companies to invest in within the Philippines, including tourism, agri-industries, telecommunications, logistics, and healthcare. Established in 1965, Dubai Chamber of Commerce continues to represent, support, and protect the interests of the business community in Dubai, create a stimulating business environment, and promote the emirate as a global business hub. The chamber is one of three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, which was restructured under a decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Earlier the Dubai Chamber of Commerce (DCC), one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has announced the establishment of the Brazilian Business Council. The new council is dedicated to expanding cooperation between the business communities in Dubai and Brazil, deepening trade and investment ties, and promoting bilateral partnerships across diverse sectors. The inaugural annual general meeting of the Brazilian Business Council was hosted recently at Dubai Chambers' headquarters. Discussions focused on enhancing investments in promising business opportunities, strengthening the ties between Brazilian companies and their counterparts in Dubai, sharing expertise and data, and organising bilateral business events. The launch of the council reflects Dubai's position as an international business hub for Brazilian companies and investors. During 2024, non-oil trade between Dubai and Brazil reached Dhs13.8 billion, marking a 35 per cent year-on-year increase and highlighting the growing strength of bilateral trade relations.
Filipino Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Filipino Times
Dubai Chamber of Commerce organises 180 bilateral business meetings in Manila to strengthen trade relations between Dubai and the Philippines
Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, has successfully organised 180 bilateral business meetings between companies from Dubai and their counterparts in the Philippines. The meetings in Manila marked the first stop of the chamber's trade mission to Southeast Asia, which includes both the Philippines and Thailand, and forms part of the 'New Horizons' initiative aimed at supporting the global expansion of local companies into promising international markets. The trade mission to the Philippines featured representatives from 17 private sector companies in Dubai, spanning a diverse range of sectors including food and beverages, agriculture, automotive, construction, electronics, hospitality, human resources and services, industrial lubricants, investment, and perfume retail. Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers speaking during the event. Image courtesy: Dubai Chambers Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, said: 'We are dedicated to fostering new avenues for trade between Dubai and high-potential global markets. Our trade mission to the Philippines comes as part of our ongoing drive to enable meaningful international expansion for local companies and strengthen investment ties with business communities worldwide. These efforts enhance Dubai's position as a global trade hub and contribute to the sustained growth of its non-oil exports.' As part of the mission, Dubai Chamber of Commerce hosted a business forum in Manila entitled 'Doing Business with the Philippines' The event was hosted in collaboration with the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Manila, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Philippines Board of Investment, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Export Marketing Bureau, and the Consulate General of the Philippines in Dubai. The forum featured remarks from H.E. Mohamed Obaid Al Qataam Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines; H.E. Enunina V. Mangio, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Ms. Ma. Anna Kathryna Yu-Pimentel, Special Envoy to the United Arab Emirates for Trade and Investment. During the forum, which was attended by 314 participants, Dubai Chambers signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to enhance cooperation, strengthen bilateral trade relations, and explore new areas of collaboration between the business communities in Dubai and the Philippines. Dubai Chambers also delivered a presentation showcasing Dubai's strategic advantages as a global business hub, highlighting potential areas for cooperation between the two markets and the competitive value proposition Dubai offers to Filipino companies. Non-oil trade between Dubai and the Philippines reached a value of AED 3.1 billion in 2024. The number of active Filipino companies registered with Dubai Chamber of Commerce reached 2,154 by the end of last year, representing year-over-year growth of approximately 37%. Dubai Chamber of Commerce has identified several high-potential export sectors from Dubai to the Philippines, including leather, car parts, fertilisers, flat-rolled iron/steel, organic chemicals, and flooring materials. The chamber also highlighted promising sectors for Dubai-based companies to invest in within the Philippines, including tourism, agri-industries, telecommunications, logistics, and healthcare.
7 days ago
- Business
Dubai Chamber of Commerce Leads 180 Business Meetings in Philippines to Boost Trade Ties
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce has successfully organised 180 bilateral business meetings in Manila as part of a strategic trade mission aimed at strengthening economic ties between Dubai and the Philippines. Marking the first leg of its Southeast Asia outreach under the 'New Horizons' initiative, the chamber brought together representatives from 17 Dubai-based companies across key sectors, including food and beverages, construction, electronics, and investment, to explore expansion and collaboration opportunities in the Philippines. The initiative is designed to support the global growth of Dubai's private sector and deepen trade relations with high-potential markets. Salem Al Shamsi, Vice President of International Relations at Dubai Chambers, emphasised the mission's role in positioning Dubai as a global trade hub and promoting its non-oil exports. As part of the visit, the chamber hosted a business forum titled Doing Business with the Philippines , held in collaboration with the UAE Embassy in Manila and major Philippine trade bodies. The event attracted 314 participants and featured keynote speeches from trade and investment leaders from both countries. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Dubai Chambers and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry to enhance cooperation and explore new areas of partnership. Dubai Chambers also presented Dubai's strategic advantages to Filipino businesses, showcasing sectors such as leather, car parts, and organic chemicals as key export opportunities. It also identified investment potential in the Philippines' tourism, logistics, and healthcare sectors. Non-oil trade between the two markets reached AED3.1 billion in 2024, while the number of Filipino companies registered with Dubai Chamber rose by 37% year-over-year to 2,154 by the end of the same year. News Source: Emirates News Agency
