Philippines, Canada may launch FTA talks in early 2026
Philstar Global - 26 November 2025
Philippines, Canada may launch FTA talks in early 2026
The Philippines and Canada are looking to launch negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) by early next year, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty told reporters that the parties may launch FTA talks in the first quarter of next year.
To be able to start FTA negotiations next year, he said the parties are aiming to complete within the year the reference paper, which will provide the scope of the talks.
“The directive to us is to conclude the negotiation also next year,” Gepty said.
In December last year, the Philippines and Canada announced the launch of exploratory talks for a bilateral FTA to bring trade relations to a new level.
The countries first announced plans to launch exploratory discussions for a bilateral FTA in 2015.
Exploratory talks were launched last year following the passage of reforms in the Philippines to attract more investments.
Once negotiations are concluded, the FTA with Canada would be the Philippines’ first with a North American country.
“It’s a strategic move also for purposes of diversification,” Gepty said.
Diversifying trade markets has become more important amid uncertainties stemming from protectionist policies in the United States.
Gepty said the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) - Canada FTA is also eyed for completion next year.
As the Philippines has formally applied to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), he said that the application is expected to be considered by the trade agreement’s member-countries by next year.
Last week, CPTPP members issued a joint ministerial statement identifying four aspirants namely Uruguay, the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines and Indonesia.
