UK to hold investment forum next wk

MANILA, Philippines - The British Embassy is holding an investment forum next week to encourage Philippine firms to consider opportunities in the United Kingdom (UK).

According to the British Embassy in Manila, it is organizing the GREAT Investment Forum with the UK Trade and Investment to be held on October 8, at the Makati Shangri-La.

The British Embassy said the event is being held to present the major investment opportunities in the UK, in sectors such as financial services/banking, food and drink, retail, education, healthcare and infrastructure.

Apart from presenting investment opportunities, the forum would also discuss the advantages of doing business in the UK and the process in setting up operations there.

The event is being held as Philippine investors and companies are growing in strength and looking to expand.

 “The UK is passionate about making itself the best place to invest and do business in, providing the ideal gateway for those looking to cater not only to the UK but to the growing European market as well,” the British Embassy said.

Among the Philippine companies which have set up operations in the UK are Bank of the Philippine Islands and Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co.

The British Embassy is encouraging Philippine firms to consider investment opportunities in the UK as part of strengthening the two countries’ economic ties.

UK Ambassador to the Philippines Asif Ahmad said earlier the UK aims to double its trade with the Philippines in the next four years.

In 2013, UK exports of goods to the Philippines amounted to 374 million pounds, while its imports from the Philippines reached 383 million pounds.

Ahmad said the UK also wants to remain the largest investor from Europe in the Philippines.