ISDS Case Map
Philippines
The European Union and the Philippines announced the resumption of negotiations for a free trade agreement, with Brussels saying the first round of talks should begin “later this year”.
President Marcos has sought the support of the Czech government and businessmen here for the resumption of negotiations for a free trade deal between the Philippines and the European Union (EU).
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.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently announced the Philippines' signing of the second protocol to the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement during the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit. This agreement aims to facilitate trade and investment opportunities for businesses, including micro, small, and medium enterprises, by reducing trade barriers and enhancing market access.
The Philippines hopes to launch formal negotiations for a free trade agreement with the European Union "very soon," Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo told Agence France-Presse.
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.
At a recent briefing, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Undersecretary Alan B. Gepty said the DTI is hoping to finalize a decision on whether negotiations for the FTA will resume in the first quarter.
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.
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”.
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.
