Expertise France is the French public agency for international technical cooperation, operating under the aegis of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. As a key player in the global development sector, Expertise France designs and implements cooperation programs that aim to build capacities, strengthen institutions, and support sustainable development worldwide. In the Philippines, the agency is prominently involved in implementing the EU-funded Green Economy Programme (GEPP), which focuses on advancing inclusive, resilient, and environmentally sound economic growth.
Organization Background
Headquartered in Paris, France, with a local office presence in Manila, Expertise France operates across over 100 countries through technical assistance, public-private collaboration, and international partnerships. The agency plays a pivotal role in aligning France’s international cooperation efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. With a portfolio spanning governance, health, climate, education, and security, Expertise France manages over €300 million in projects annually.
In the Philippines, the organization has expanded its footprint significantly through its collaboration with local institutions, particularly in support of climate-resilient and green economic development.
Core Services and Programmatic Areas
Expertise France delivers specialized services through several operational pillars:
1. Technical Assistance and Capacity Building
- Institutional Support to government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and NGOs
- Project Engineering including feasibility studies and results-based planning
- Training and Workshops aimed at enhancing administrative, environmental, and financial capacities
2. Green Economy Programme (EU-GEPP)
Implemented in partnership with the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) and other stakeholders, GEPP supports:
- Green MSME development and eco-entrepreneurship
- Waste management and recycling systems for LGUs
- Eco-innovation in packaging and materials sourcing
- Capacity building for transitioning towards circular economies
This program is part of the European Union's €60 million commitment to climate-related development efforts in the Philippines.
3. Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs)
- Facilitation of solid waste management solutions through PPP models
- Support to climate finance initiatives and bankable green investments
- Advisory on local economic development projects
Unique Value Proposition (USP)
Expertise France brings together:
- Public sector experience with multilateral project implementation
- Deep institutional networks across Europe and partner countries
- Proven methodologies in results-based management and evaluation
- Multidisciplinary expertise across governance, environmental policy, finance, and urban planning
Target Beneficiaries and Partners
The agency works with a diverse set of partners and stakeholders:
- Philippine national and local government agencies
- European Union and multilateral donors
- Private sector organizations and MSMEs
- Academia and research institutions
- Civil society and non-profit organizations
Capabilities and Resources
Expertise France’s operational structure allows it to mobilize:
- Over 1,000 field experts and consultants
- A global project management team with experience in over 100 countries
- EU-aligned procurement, monitoring, and evaluation systems
- Technical partnerships with European institutions and development banks
Financial Overview
Expertise France operates with an annual budget exceeding €300 million, managing large-scale donor-funded projects. The Green Economy Programme in the Philippines, under GEPP, is co-financed by the European Union, with an approximate budget of €10–15 million allocated to green initiatives.
Project and Shipment Data
Although Expertise France does not engage in commercial shipments, its developmental outputs include:
- Support for 500+ MSMEs in sustainable packaging and circular economy practices
- Facilitation of waste diversion programs in 10+ LGUs
- Development of pilot green finance models with local banking institutions
Certifications and Governance
- Operates under French and EU public service standards
- Donor-funded project compliance with EC regulations and fiduciary transparency
- Adheres to OECD DAC guidelines for development cooperation
- Implements strict environmental and social safeguards
Testimonials and Partner Recognition
“Expertise France’s support in capacity-building and technical guidance has been instrumental in scaling our city’s green economy initiatives.”
— Mayor of participating LGU under GEPP
“Their integrated approach to climate action and MSME support bridges policy and community impact.”
— Senior Program Officer, CITEM
Achievements
- Implemented EU-GEPP in the Philippines, supporting climate-smart enterprises and solid waste reforms
- Strengthened institutional capacity of over 20 LGUs and regional development councils
- Promoted EU-Philippine cooperation through green innovation, digitalization, and community resilience programs
- Recognized by the European Commission as a trusted implementing partner for green economy transitions
Expertise France continues to play a crucial role in the Philippines’ sustainable development landscape, supporting systemic transitions toward a greener, more inclusive economy through strategic partnerships, policy engagement, and localized capacity building.