PH to seal 3 free-trade agreements

The Philippines will sign at least three free trade agreements (FTAs) next year, including a historic deal with the European Union (EU), as part of the government's bid to boost the country's exports, which remain robust despite global headwinds.

- By DEXTER BARRO II

Speaking at the National Exporters' Week 2025, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque confirmed that the country will seal FTAs with the EU, Chile, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) next year.

"That's another good news for Philippine exporters. So let's take advantage of this. Let's open our market to the world. Let's open the opportunities to the world," said Roque.

Roque said the first of these agreements that will enter into force is the comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, now scheduled for signing in January 2026.

Both countries have spent months setting the stage for the CEPA signing schedule, having concluded negotiations in the first half of the year.

Once signed, this will be the country's first trade deal with a Middle Eastern state and its first linkage with a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The CEPA is expected to boost investments from the UAE into the Philippines, particularly through sovereign wealth funds (SWFs).

The DTI is also keen on signing the CEPA with Chile next year, which will be the country's first FTA with a Latin American state.

Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty earlier said the government is working to secure the agreement "at the soonest possible time," following a mutual commitment with the Chilean side.