A global consultancy firm named the Philippines as the most underrated country for investment in 2025.
Global Residence Index said this was based on its evaluation of countries that are underrated for investment this year, looking at key factors such as investment incentives and tax policies, political and economic stability, emerging sectors and market potential, ease of doing business and legal framework, and infrastructure and workforce quality.
The Philippines is followed by Portugal, Mexico, Vietnam and Colombia.
Among the positive factors it cited are strong infrastructure developments and a young, English-speaking workforce.
“The Philippines is a rising economy in Southeast Asia. It’s been underrated due to perceived bureaucracy and instability, but with a young, English-speaking workforce and strong consumer demand, it’s a promising country. It’s best for outsourcing, tech startups, and real estate investments,” said Mark Damsgaard, founder of Global Residence Index.
Global Residence Index, part of Vancis Capital, provides up-to-date indexes and insights for the citizenship by investment and golden visa industry. It provides the latest information on visa-free travel, immigration requirements and investment regulations, catering specifically to those interested in investment migration programs.
It expects the Philippines’ gross domestic product (GDP) to grow 6.1 percent in 2025.
Global Residence Index also cited the Foreign Investments Act (FIA) amendments in the Philippines that now allow 100-percent foreign ownership in key industries.
“BPO [outsourcing], fintech, e-commerce, and renewable energy sectors continue to bloom, with the startup scene growing due to government-backed programs,” it said.
Global Residence Index said while bureaucracy and slow government processes remain a challenge in the Philippines, digitalization efforts aim to improve investor experience.
