China’s leading battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) is exploring opportunities to either export to the Philippines or establish local battery manufacturing operations.
Association for Philippines-China Understanding (APCU) president Sixto Benedicto said CATL representatives visited the Philippines following a delegation’s trip to Nanning in March 2025.
“There was a business meeting, and they came here to find opportunities in the Philippines. They are yet to decide whether they will bring in batteries or set up a production facility here,” Benedicto told reporters in a pre-event briefing for the Awards for Promoting Philippines-China Understanding (APPCU), held Monday in Intramuros, Manila.
The visit, facilitated by local businessman David Lim, owner of Solid Industry, was intended to evaluate the feasibility of setting up battery manufacturing operations in the Philippines.
Benedicto said CATL is considering the Philippines as a strategic location for its operations, given the increasing demand for EVs and the corresponding need for batteries.
CATL’s foresight aligns with the Philippines’ recent advancements in the battery manufacturing industry, particularly the operations of the StB Giga Factory.
Benedicto said the growing interest from major international companies, coupled with supportive government policies, positions the Philippines to become a key player in the region’s sustainable energy sector.
“As the demand for EVs continues to rise, the Philippines is in a good position to play a crucial role both in the supply chain and as a player in the new battery space,” he said, noting that Chinese electric vehicles increased their presence in the Philippines with the entry of multiple brands.
APCU said the establishment of robust battery manufacturing capabilities within the Philippines would be crucial in supporting the transition to cleaner transportation and energy solutions.
