MANILA — The Philippines is launching its largest commercial delegation in the history of the China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), taking center stage as this year's official "Country of Honor."
The country's participation in the 23rd edition of the trade mission between China and ASEAN showcases the Philippines' rapidly expanding industrial ecosystem and robust economic capabilities on the international stage.
Running from September 17 to 21, 2026, at the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center in Guangxi, China, the milestone marks the Philippines' second time earning the prestigious designation since the first one in 2013. The recognition underscores the nation's technological agility, increasingly resilient supply chains, and thriving green economy.
Global Push for High-Value Exports
The Philippines brings together 313 participants representing 73 high-value export enterprises. These businesses are displaying a diverse selection of goods, ranging from processed food and agriculture to home furnishings, fashion accessories, and artisanal crafts. Operating under the banner PARTNERPhilippines, these enterprises demonstrate the country's rising value as an indispensable ASEAN trade partner.
"This year's participation is forged by the ambition and product innovation of Filipino exhibitors, backed by whole-of-government support. Every deal closed directly feeds into economic growth, elevating Philippine exports," stated the Center for International Trade, Exposition and Missions (CITEM), the agency spearheading the country's expo efforts.
Cebu, the province of charm
Highlighting regional development and local institutional capabilities, Cebu province takes the spotlight as CAEXPO's official "Province of Charm."
Sustaining an impressive 7.3 percent annual economic growth rate, Cebu is leveraging the platform to showcase its robust manufacturing core and world-class logistics. Anchored by the Mactan-Cebu International Airport and strategic deepwater ports, the province is aggressively positioning itself as a premier gateway for foreign investments and creative industries.
Philippine investment talks
Capitalizing on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA), the Philippine delegation is expanding far beyond traditional commodity trading. The Board of Investments (BOI) is spearheading the Philippine Investment Forum to attract foreign capital into high-growth, future-ready sectors, including renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, green metals, high-tech manufacturing, modern healthcare, pharmaceuticals, digital infrastructure, and data centers.
Building on prior successes, the 2026 delegation is well-positioned to break historical export records. Through CAEXPO 2026, the Philippines aims to cement its ongoing transformation into an innovative, sustainable, and highly competitive economic powerhouse in the region.