EU reaches initial free trade deal with Philippines in pivot to Asia
The pact would remove tariffs on most goods and expand rules on digital trade, procurement, intellectual property and clean technology.
- On Tuesday, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos agreed on a free-trade deal, marking a significant step forward in negotiations.
- The Philippines is only the third Association of Southeast Asian Nations member country to conclude a bilateral free trade deal with the European Union, after Singapore and Vietnam.
- Both sides aim to deepen trade and investment ties, offering fair rules and predictability for businesses, farmers, and manufacturers amid global economic volatility.
- Philippine Trade Secretary Cristina Roque and European Commissioner for Trade Maros Sefcovic instructed negotiators to finalize the agreement as soon as possible, targeting formal conclusion in the coming months.
- The European Chamber welcomed the deal as a "historic first" for economic relations, with President Diana Edralin noting the framework establishes a predictable foundation for future global investment.
145 Articles
145 Articles
PH, EU hail free trade deal breakthrough
The European Union and the Philippines said Tuesday that the two sides made a “breakthrough” in their talks on a long-awaited free trade deal.Brussels and the Philippines “reached substantial agreement on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant milestone for both sides,” EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic and Philippine Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said in a statement.They made the announcement after a video call, “setting the deal on a…
EU Strikes Free Trade Deal With Philippines in Bid to Ease Reliance on Major Powers
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivers a speech at the annual State of the European Union at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on Sept. 16, 2026. (AP Photo/Pascal Bastien, File)
Agricultural associations welcome the announcement for “best access” to the Philippine market for European exports of pigs, birds and liqueurs
Kreiszeitung
EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič sees better access for EU companies to a market with 113 million consumers and a tailwind for new trade agreements in the region in the agreement with the Philippines.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 43% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
