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Several semiconductor companies based in the United States (US) have expressed interest in expanding their manufacturing facilities in the Philippines, coinciding with the country’s growing ambition to become a major player in the global value chain.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque said she was able to meet these interested firms during her trip last week to Washington, DC, as part of the Philippine delegation that engaged with key Trump administration officials.
During her five-day trip in the US, Roque participated in a high-level business forum convened by the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), the leading industry group that represents the American semiconductor sector.
She also met with executives of semiconductor company Texas Instruments (TI), which has been present in the Philippines for over 40 years through its manufacturing facilities in various economic zones.
Roque said TI is keen on growing its business in the Philippines through an expansion that would significantly boost its manufacturing capabilities.
Encouraging semiconductor firms to expand and invest in the country is the government’s way to ensure its share in the technology that has become a central figure in the global economy.
“We always want to be part of the global value chain, especially for strong industries,” Roque told reporters.
“I'm also looking at how they can provide more jobs. And then, what do they need? So that we can really let them expand and let their presence stay in the country,” she added.
Semiconductors, which are used in devices integral to global connectivity, have steadily been a focal point in trade disputes among leading economies such as the US and China.
$39.09 billion, or 53.4 percent of the total exportsAccording to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), electric products, including semiconductors, were the country’s top export last year, reaching.
The Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation Inc. (SEIPI) expects this to grow by one to two percent this year.
While the threat of tariffs on semiconductors remains looming, the US’s earlier imposed 17 percent reciprocal tariffs on Philippine goods are seen to potentially attract investments.
The country’s tariffs, which are currently suspended alongside those of other countries, are among the lowest in Southeast Asia.
With a focus on further strengthening the semiconductor industry, Roque said the government is committed to “protecting the investments” of companies looking to expand their operations.
She noted that maintaining trade stability is vital in this regard, hence the need to “explore strategic responses to safeguard the semiconductor industry from any trade disruption.”
The DTI chief said the cabinet secretaries of the Marcos administration are ready to address issues that these companies may face, such as in the ease of doing business.
