Vespa, a global motorcycle brand, has expressed interest in exploring investment opportunities in the Philippines, according to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) which is strengthening its push to attract foreign investors from China.
PEZA director-general Tereso Panga said this was one of the highlights of PEZA’s recent three-day investment mission to Shenzhen, China from May 28 to 30, 2025.
“With the growing interest in the Philippines as the new ‘plus one’ preferred destination in ASEAN by relocating companies from China, we are confident that we can do a quick turnover and welcome these companies as new locators,” he said.
The mission was organized by the Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou and the American Chamber of Commerce in South China, in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Guangzhou.
The forum drew considerable attention from participating companies, with Vespa’s presence underscoring growing international confidence in the Philippines as a strategic investment destination in Southeast Asia. Vespa has facilities in China.
PEZA said the mission aimed to deepen trade and investment ties with China, especially in the manufacturing sector.
Panga said Vespa’s interest in the Philippine market is viewed as a promising development, given the brand’s global stature and the potential for technology transfer and job creation.
“The leadership of DTI, PTICs, and PEZA, especially under DG Panga, has been crucial in ensuring that our country remains visible, viable, and investor-ready,” said Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates head Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, who was also part of the delegation.
China remains one of the Philippines’ largest investment partners, contributing 22 percent of total foreign investments.
PEZA said 118 Chinese enterprises have already generated over $406 million in exports and created more than 16,000 jobs.
PEZA also visited Shenzhen Grandsun Electronic Co., Ltd., the parent company of a PEZA-registered firm in Batangas, which reaffirmed its plans to expand and relocate its full supply chain to the Philippines.
