Mindanao: Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Secretary Leo Tereso Magno met with officials from Yunnan Province, China, and presented new investment opportunities to strengthen trade ties between the two regions.

According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting aimed to foster practical business linkages in agriculture, food processing, renewable energy, tourism, logistics, and other sectors where Mindanao and Yunnan possess complementary strengths. Magno emphasized Mindanao's economic strengths and investment prospects, identifying specific areas for trade and business cooperation with Yunnan Province.

Magno highlighted Mindanao's strategic location, abundant resources, strong agricultural base, and expanding agro-industrial sector as key advantages for potential investors and international partners. He noted that Mindanao's fertile soils, strategic position facing ASEAN neighbors within the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines - East ASEAN Growth Area), and expanding agro-industrial sector offer an ideal platform for high-value processing, trade, and sustainable investment.

He also referenced President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s push for an open and investor-friendly business environment, supported by MinDA's efforts such as the Mindanao Development Corridors and initiatives to strengthen linkages among investors, local governments, and implementing agencies. Magno stated that the President's drive for stronger international economic partnerships is bolstered by MinDA's BIMP-EAGA engagement, positioning Mindanao as a strategic gateway for trade, investment, and regional cooperation.

Ma Jun, deputy director general of the Department of Commerce of Yunnan, expressed interest in potential cooperation in agriculture, food processing, flowers and vegetables, energy, and other industries. He highlighted opportunities for cooperation in food processing and other industries, including energy, and expressed eagerness to strengthen investment and trade between Yunnan and Mindanao.

MinDA Executive Director Undersecretary Janet Lopoz reinforced the agency's role in facilitating investments across Mindanao and the BIMP-EAGA sub-region, emphasizing its commitment to connecting investors with opportunities and making it easier for businesses to establish and expand in the region. She expressed hope that this engagement marks the beginning of many future meetings between MinDA, the Mindanao business sector, and Yunnan Province, aiming for lasting partnerships, increased trade, and shared prosperity.