Philippines

Philippines

Established Green Lanes for strategic investments

23 Feb 2023

On February 23, 2023, the Government of the Philippines announced the creation of "Green Lanes" for strategic investments. Executive Order No. 18 mandates all national government agencies (NGAs) to establish green lanes that will expedite the process of obtaining necessary licenses and permits for investments. Strategic investments are those that are aligned with the Philippine Development Plan or any similar national development plan and are expected to make a significant contribution to the economy by bringing in substantial capital or investments, improving the country's balance of payments, and enhancing its infrastructure capabilities. These investments will be categorized as follows: (1) Highly Desirable Projects, (2) Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), and (3) Projects or activities under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP).

Additionally, the Department of Trade and Industry-Board of Investments (DTI-BOI) will establish a One-Stop-Action-Center for Strategic Investments (OSAC-SI) within six months of the EO's issuance. OSAC-SI will serve as the sole point of entry for all projects that qualify as strategic investments.