Clark, Incheon free zones partner to boost manufacturing, BPO
PAMPANGA, PHILIPPINES — The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and South Korea’s Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) are joining forces to strengthen manufacturing and BPO investments in the Clark Freeport Zone.
The collaboration, following a recent Philippine investment roadshow in Seoul, aims to enhance supply chains, attract foreign capital, and expand local business opportunities.
Economic zones to drive investment, tech transfer
The benchmarking activity between CDC and IFEZ seeks to leverage both zones’ strengths, facilitating technology transfer and improving supply-chain efficiencies.
A CDC official noted that the partnership could spur foreign direct investment while enabling local firms to scale operations and access new markets.
Key sectors targeted include cosmetics and beauty product manufacturing, with plans to relocate some production to Clark.
“This collaboration aims to strengthen manufacturing, raw material sourcing, and BPO services, including the relocation of cosmetic and beauty product manufacturing to Clark Freeport Zone. The initiative is expected to create a more dynamic and competitive economic environment in Clark,” a CDC official said, aligning with the Philippines’ broader push under the CREATE MORE incentive program.
Roadshow spotlights Philippines trade advantages
The collaboration follows the Philippine Investment Forum in South Korea, which highlighted the country’s preferential tariffs, free-trade agreements, and CREATE MORE incentives.
The event, led by the Office of the Presidential Adviser for Investment and Economic Affairs (OSAPIEA), outlined policy directions and sectoral opportunities to attract Korean investors.
Government agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Board of Investments (BOI), are coordinating to position Clark as a prime destination for manufacturing and BPO expansion.
The forum laid the groundwork for future partnerships, with IFEZ seen as a strategic ally in boosting Clark’s economic growth.
