Philippines

The Philippines signed its first bilateral FTA with Japan in 2006 and is presently party to the ASEAN FTA processes (China, India, Korea, Japan and Australia/New Zealand). The Philippine government has been trying to get Washington to offer an FTA, while those of New Zealand and Chile are apparently in favour of a bilateral deal with Manila. The Philippine government wants to join the TPP, and is engaged in efforts to lay the groundwork for negotiations with the EU for a possible FTA.

last update: May 2012
Photo: Michel Cermak/Twitter


Business World Online | 2-Apr-2024
The Philippines could ratify the free trade agreement (FTA) with South Korea by the middle of the year, with no issues expected to arise from the deal, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
GMA | 13-Mar-2024
A potential free trade agreement between the Philippines and the United States will be brought to the table once the delegation of American business leaders, assembled by US President Joe Biden, comes back to America.
Business World | 23-Jan-2024
The agreement should emphasize technological innovation, research and development (R&D), education, and the integration of emerging technologies in trade, Trade Undersecretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba said.
Business World | 15-Jan-2024
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of Philippines is pressing for a swift conclusion to the renegotiation of the PJEPA. Concerns include improved market access for Philippine bananas and Japan seeking better market access for its industrial goods.
PNA | 6-Dec-2023
South Korea is eager to see increased trade and investment with the Philippines, Korean Ambassador to the Philippines said, as he conveyed Seoul’s intention to ratify its recently signed free trade agreement with Manila “soon”.
Sun Star | 4-Dec-2023
On December 2, 2023, The Philippine’s DTI Secretary signed the Terms of Reference for negotiations on a CEPA with the UAE, marking the first step towards a proposed bilateral free trade agreement. The TOR provides guidelines for the negotiations and outlines the scope and coverage of the CEPA.