Manila, Philippines—An Australian trade mission is slated to visit the Philippines in 2025, aimed at bolstering the country's use of technology to spur economic growth, according to Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu.

According to the Philippines News Agency, Ambassador Yu detailed the initiative during a media reception at her residence over the weekend. She highlighted that the mission aligns with Philippine President Marcos' priority to digitalize the nation's economy, providing a platform to integrate more people into the online economy. "This is very much where we felt that there was an opportunity for Australian companies with cutting-edge technology to share their technology and experience with you, and to come in and look for local partners where they can actually roll some of this out for the benefit of the Philippines," Yu explained.

The upcoming trade mission will also encompass discussions on cybersecurity, recognizing its critical role in the digitalization of economic systems. "And of course, when you're looking at digitalizing your economy, cybersecurity is an important component of that as well," Yu added, noting the integrated approach of the planned visit.

Earlier in September, a precursor to the 2025 mission saw a high-level Australian delegation, led by Shemara Wikramanayake, CEO of Macquarie Group and the Australian Government's Business Champion to the Philippines, engage with Philippine officials. Alongside Ambassador Yu, the delegation met with Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Eli Remolona, Jr., followed by an economic roundtable on monetary, external, and fiscal affairs involving senior BSP and Department of Finance officials.

This continued engagement highlights the strengthening economic ties between Australia and the Philippines, particularly in advancing technological and digital capabilities that are pivotal for the Southeast Asian nation's economic future.