THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it is in talks with US semiconductor multinationals to expand their presence in the Philippines.
“We spoke with Texas Instruments on how they can really grow their business in the Philippines,” Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque told reporters on the sidelines of an event on Tuesday.
Ms. Roque said she also met with executives from the US Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) to pitch them on operating in the Philippines.
“Semiconductors are the number one export of the Philippines to the US. Every time we talk to them, it is about expansion… what they need, and what to focus on to keep them in the country,” she said.
The DTI also discussed trade issues and other industry concerns with SIA, Ms. Roque said, adding that her department continues to pursue plans to play a role in the chip value chain.
Last week, Ms. Roque visited the US for tariff negotiations, and took part in a business forum organized by the US Chamber of Commerce, the US-ASEAN Business Council and SIA.
Electronics were the top commodity export of the Philippines last year, accounting for 53.4% of total exports.
In 2024, the Philippines exported $39.1 billion worth of electronic products, down 6.7%. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
