China-based automotive design and engineering company Shanghai Launch Automotive Technology (Launch Design) is exploring potential partnerships to support the development of a local electric vehicle (EV) industry in the Philippines, including the possible establishment of a domestic EV brand, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

In a statement issued on May 28th, the DTI stated that Trade Secretary Cristina Roque met with Launch Design Chairman Wang Xun during her recent visit to Shanghai, China, to discuss the company's plans for the Philippine market.

The discussions focused on the localisation of EV supply chains and the establishment of local EV assembly operations in the Philippines through Launch Design's vehicle design, engineering, research and development, and small-scale manufacturing capabilities.

According to the DTI, Launch Design expressed interest in supporting EV production and local manufacturing capabilities in the Philippines. Both parties explored potential pathways to localise production, strengthen industry linkages, and address the country's increasing demand for electric and energy-efficient mobility solutions.

The DTI stated that the proposed initiatives are aligned with the Philippine government's efforts to accelerate the development of the domestic EV industry, which has experienced rising demand amid volatile fuel prices and increasing interest in cleaner mobility solutions. The government is currently finalising the Electric Vehicle Incentive Strategy (EVIS), a programme designed to encourage investments in EV manufacturing and assembly through incentive-based support mechanisms.

Founded in 2000, Launch Design is an independent automotive research and development organisation in China, providing automotive design and engineering services to manufacturers globally. The company provides vehicle development services covering concept planning, design, engineering, testing, validation, and mass production.

The company has delivered more than 400 vehicle models, including passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and new-energy vehicles. Its portfolio includes partnerships with automotive manufacturers such as BYD, Geely, and Toyota. Launch Design also holds more than 100 automotive patents. The DTI stated that the meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to continue exploring opportunities related to local EV production, industry collaboration, and supply chain development in the Philippines.

Separately, the DTI also met with officials from Guodong Group, a Chinese telecommunications infrastructure company, to discuss potential digital infrastructure investments in the Philippines. According to the department, Guodong Group has identified the Philippines as a market for its overseas expansion plans and is currently engaging with local telecommunications stakeholders to evaluate potential partnerships and acquisitions.

Guodong operates more than 50,000 communication towers in China and also provides smart-city solutions and interconnected digital technologies. Meanwhile, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque also held discussions with officials from Liwayway Holdings, AGL Group, and Joyvio Freshcall regarding plans to establish a coconut processing facility in General Santos City.

According to Liwayway China Chairman Larry Chan, the proposed facility is expected to manufacture both food and non-food products for distribution across China through the combined networks of the three companies.