Light manufacturing is also a growing industry in Davao city. It is considered as one of the top sectors for investment promotion because of its potential in generating local employment from a skilled workforce. The light industry is versatile, with many uses from industrial to aesthetic and therapeutic making it a competitive field in the global market.

Aside from the light manufacturing industry, bio-technology and cosmetic production is also viable in the city, Because of the access to sufficient raw materials, cheap utilities and the availability of a skilled human resource, these industries grow rapidly in the city.

New Advancements in light manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics:

• Rise of local and international light manufacturing, pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies
• Development of sources for Construction and related materials – wood-based (doors, windows, plywood and veneer, moldings); metal-based; non-metal based; chemical based (e.g. PVC, plastic, vinyl, paints)

Existing businesses:

• International Pharmaceuticals Incorporated
• Davao Thermo Biotech Corp
• New Davao Oil Mill, Inc