Comments by Melissa Elf, Global COO/ANZ MD, Flight Centre Corporate:
“The Philippines has become an increasingly important destination for businesses, with data from our flagship brands FCM and Corporate Traveller showing bookings taking off by 34 per cent between 01 January and 30 April 2024, when comparted to the same time period last year.
“The Philippines is an important trade and investment partner for Australia, with the Philippine economy growing at an average of six per cent per year – one of the fastest growing economies in Asia.
“In 2022, Australia’s two-way trade with the Philippines was $8.2 billion – our 17th largest trading partner.
“Australia’s proximity to the Philippines and its reputation as a supplier of quality materials and services are important factors enhancing the bilateral trade, economic, and investment relationship with a market of 113 million people.
“Our data also shows us that the number of businesspeople travelling has seen an increase of nearly 30 per cent when compared to last year – with the top five industries being Information Technology, Finance and Insurance, Services, Construction, and Education.
“Flight Centre Travel Group’s motto is to ‘open up the world for those who want to see’ – that is no different for us in transporting businesses worldwide for trade and growth. The wide body of the Airbus A330-200 has up to 15 tonnes of export capacity – offering real potential for corporates.”
