The three-day Taiwan Expo 2026 opened on Thursday, bringing 125 companies to the Philippines, a number the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) said signals the growing interest among Taiwanese firms in the country.

In an interview with reporters in Pasay City, Taiwan Expo 2026 spokesperson and TAITRA chairman James Huang said the participating firms see “great potential” in the existing commercial ties between Taiwan and the Philippines and expect the expo to facilitate business deals valued at USD100 million.

“Because of the restructuring of global supply chain, Taiwanese companies are trying to diversify their operations. And Philippines has become one of the most favorable destinations for Taiwanese companies in the area of electronic manufacturing and in semiconductor-related industries,” he said.

“The Taiwanese companies’ interest in investing and working with Filipino partners is fully reflected in the Taiwan Expo.”

Huang said Taiwanese businesses are particularly interested in working with Filipino firms in new technologies, specifically in artificial intelligence applications.

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines (TECO) Representative Wallace Chow, who graced the event, highlighted the growing exchanges in trade, investment, and talent between Taiwan and the Philippines.

“Based on this momentum, we need to keep going to further strengthen our economic and industrial cooperation,” he said.

“As one of the fast-growing economies in Southeast Asia, the Philippines can offer tremendous potential for Taiwanese businessmen and investors. Taiwan’s strength in technology and innovation can complement the Philippines’ dynamic and vibrant economy.”

The Taiwan Expo is an international trade platform organized by Taiwan’s International Trade Administration under the Ministry of Economic Affairs and implemented by TAITRA.

Its Philippine iteration, running from Sept. 17 to 19, brings together Filipino buyers and Taiwanese businesses presenting products across smart manufacturing, renewable energy, healthcare, agriculture, and food and consumer goods, among others.

During its run at the SMX Convention Center, the expo will also host the inaugural Taiwan-Japan-Philippines Industrial Cooperation Forum, bringing Taiwanese and Japanese companies together with Philippine businesses to explore potential cooperation in areas, including green energy and smart cities. (PNA)