Marcos Champions MSME Empowerment and Digital Trade at APEC: What It Means for the Philippine Economy and Forex Markets
A Call for Inclusive Growth in the Asia-Pacific
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. took the global stage at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, with a powerful message: empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and strengthen digital trade to create more inclusive and resilient economies.
His statement came at a time when global trade faces multiple disruptions—from geopolitical tensions to rapid technological shifts—and MSMEs, often the lifeblood of local economies, remain vulnerable.
“By streamlining rules, investing in digital infrastructure, and equipping our MSMEs and workforce with the skills they need to compete globally, we can ensure inclusive and sustainable growth,” Marcos said.
Empowering MSMEs in the Digital Age
The President’s remarks highlight a crucial economic truth: MSMEs account for over 99% of businesses in the Philippines and employ a majority of the workforce. However, many still struggle to access financing, digital tools, and international markets.
By advocating digital trade, Marcos aims to level the playing field—giving Filipino entrepreneurs access to global buyers, online marketplaces, and digital payment systems. This transformation could make it easier for local enterprises to participate in cross-border e-commerce, boosting both employment and innovation.
The government’s focus on regulatory reforms and upskilling also aligns with global efforts to build smarter supply chains—those that can adapt to disruptions while maintaining productivity and efficiency.
Public-Private Partnerships as the Cornerstone of Growth
Marcos cited the Public-Private Partnership Code of the Philippines (Republic Act 11966) as a major step toward improving business confidence and attracting long-term investments.
“This law embodies our commitment to creating an enabling environment where private enterprises can actively contribute to development goals,” he said.
Such partnerships open doors for investments in infrastructure, energy, and technology—key sectors that directly affect both national competitiveness and investor sentiment.
For forex traders, policies like this matter. A more attractive investment climate can strengthen the Philippine peso (PHP), especially against currencies like the USD (US Dollar) or JPY (Japanese Yen), as capital inflows rise and investor confidence improves.
Digital Trade and Its Link to the Forex Market
Digitalization isn’t just a tech buzzword—it’s a growth engine that could influence currency strength. As the Philippines invests in digital infrastructure and e-commerce, the economy becomes more efficient and competitive globally.
When digital exports rise, and the business ecosystem attracts more foreign partners, the PHP could gain stability in forex markets. For example, stronger digital trade partnerships with economies like China, Japan, or the United States might improve the country’s trade balance, potentially leading to a firmer peso against pairs like USD/PHP or JPY/PHP.
For Forex Trading beginners, understanding how digital trade and investment flows affect currency movement is essential. News like this doesn’t just impact policy—it can also drive price movements in the forex market.
Collaboration and Innovation Across APEC
Marcos also expressed support for APEC’s new “Incheon Plan,” which focuses on fiscal innovation, climate resilience, and digital transformation. By strengthening ties with the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC), the Philippines aims to attract investments in energy, digitalization, and sustainable infrastructure—all vital to long-term economic health.
“We see the business community as our kabalikat, our steadfast partners, in building a more connected and resilient APEC region,” he said.
This emphasis on partnership underscores a broader regional shift toward cooperation in technology, finance, and sustainability—a positive sign for both investors and forex traders seeking growth opportunities in emerging Asian economies.
The Digital Push that Strengthens the Peso
President Marcos’ APEC message is more than diplomacy—it’s a vision of inclusive economic resilience powered by digital innovation and global cooperation. For traders and investors, this means keeping an eye not just on interest rates or inflation but also on how digital transformation and MSME support policies shape future forex trends.
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