The Philippines and Canada have concluded negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA), with both countries targeting the signing of the deal in 2027.
The development followed a bilateral meeting between President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney ahead of the opening of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits.
The meeting marked a major milestone in bilateral trade relations, with the two leaders discussing the conclusion of negotiations for the Philippines-Canada FTA, which aims to expand market access for Philippine products and services.
The proposed agreement covers trade in goods and services, investment, digital trade, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), among other areas.
The deal is expected to provide Filipino entrepreneurs and businesses with opportunities to reach more Canadian consumers, expand their customer base, and generate additional income. Filipino workers, including those offering services online, could also benefit from increased access to the Canadian market.
Marcos and Carney also discussed investment opportunities under the Luzon Economic Corridor, particularly in transportation, infrastructure, agri-food, food logistics, and cold-chain technologies.
Beyond trade and investment, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defense, security, and maritime cooperation, as well as promoting peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.
The conclusion of the negotiations builds on the momentum of the leaders' previous meeting during Marcos' official visit to Canada in July 2026.
