DENMARK is hoping its construction firms can win a share of the infrastructure contracts on offer under the government’s “Build, Build, Build” program.
Danish Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs Brian Mikkelsen “expressed interest in bringing construction firms to participate” in the government’s aggressive infrastructure program, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said in a statement.
Mr. Mikkelsen also expressed interest on behalf of Danish companies in the renewable energy and affordable pharmaceuticals.
Mr. Mikkelsen was quoted as saying that Danish companies “want to be part of the development” happening in the Philippines.
Trade Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said “unsolicited proposals are welcome.”
“The current economic growth momentum, rating upgrades, and aggressive infrastructure programs offer a lot of business opportunities for foreign investors particularly with technology-oriented services and systems,” Mr. Lopez said.
“President Rodrigo [R.] Duterte guarantees that your investments will be protected from corruption,” he said.
The two officials met to discuss trade and investment opportunities between the Philippines and Denmark, with much of the talks revolving around infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the DTI said it is planning to promote Filipino food in Scandinavia, as well as a road show in Denmark next year.
The Philippines currently enjoys Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus privileges granted by the European Union. Under the scheme, tariff rates for over 6,000 products shipped to the regional bloc are levied lower or zero import duties. — Janina C. Lim
