ISDS Case Map
Philippines
While in Japan, our attention has been called to thoroughly examine the free trade agreement (FTA) between Japan and the Philippines
Provincial officials heaved a sigh of relief when a Philippine-China trade agreement, which covered vegetables and other items, was not one of the documents signed during last week's visit of Chinese President Hu Jintao to the country.
Vegetables are not included in the Early Harvest Program (EHP) agreement the Philippines and China signed just this Wednesday, April 27, according to Trade and Industry Secretary Juan B. Santos, even though raw and unprocessed agricultural products are covered by the agreement.
The SNR Coalition scored today the ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade agreeement between the Japan and Philippine governments called Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) which was to be completed and signed in July of this year.
Negotiations for the proposed Early Harvest Program (EHP) may soon resume as the Philippines and China expressed interest in forging a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the project.
Except for the areas of trade in goods and work permits for Filipino nurses, what will be achieved through the Japan-Philippines EPA is nothing more than maintaining the status quo.
Issues involving tariff protection and reduction on automotive products have delayed the conclusion of talks over the planned Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).
Bahrain businessmen have identified areas to improve bilateral trade relations with the Philippines can be improved including the forging of a free trade agreement (FTA).
US Assistant Trade Representative Barbara Weisel yesterday urged Manila to sign a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) with Washington to boost its underperforming economy and keep it globally competitive.
Trade and Industry Secretary Juan B. Santos sees no need to rush a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States. According to Santos, an FTA with the US at this time may even be "premature."
