PH
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and Canada have concluded negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA), with both countries eyeing its signing in 2027, Malacañang said Saturday, November 14.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met on Saturday on the sidelines of the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, where they discussed the trade deal and other areas of cooperation.
The proposed agreement covers trade in goods and services, investments, digital trade and small and medium-sized enterprises.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said the FTA could help Philippine businesses expand their reach in the Canadian market and create more income opportunities for local entrepreneurs and workers.
The agreement could also benefit Filipinos providing services online through provisions covering digital trade.
Marcos and Carney also discussed investment opportunities under the Luzon Economic Corridor, particularly in transportation, infrastructure, agri-food, food logistics and cold-chain technologies.
The two leaders likewise reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defense, security and maritime cooperation, as well as promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
The conclusion of negotiations follows the two leaders' meeting during Marcos' official visit to Canada in July, when they committed to completing discussions on the FTA within the year.
Both governments are now working toward signing the agreement in 2027, the PCO said.
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Date posted: 2026-11-14T13:44:00+08:00