Philippines, UAE strengthen trade ties with new agreement

UAE – The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement aimed at improving market access for goods, services, and investments.

The agreement was formalized during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s two-day working visit to the UAE, highlighting the growing economic link between the two nations.

The signing took place on January 13 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026. Philippine Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque and UAE Foreign Trade Minister Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi signed the agreement in the presence of Presidents Marcos and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

“This agreement marks a new chapter in our trade relations with the UAE, offering more opportunities for Filipino businesses and professionals,” Marcos said.

Boosting Philippine exports

From a fresh produce perspective, the agreement is expected to increase exports of bananas and pineapples, staples of Philippine shipments to Middle Eastern markets.

Preliminary studies cited by the Presidential Communications Office suggest that Philippine exports to the UAE could rise by 9.13 percent. The agreement also provides a more stable environment for smaller producers and exporters engaged in agriculture and related supply chains.

“Filipino companies, including small-scale producers, will now find a more predictable and fair market in the UAE,” Roque said.

The pact covers digital trade, micro, small, and medium enterprises, sustainable development, intellectual property, competition, consumer protection, government procurement, and technical cooperation.

It complements the Philippines’ existing network of trade agreements with countries such as Japan, South Korea, the European Free Trade Association, and regional frameworks under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Strengthening broader cooperation

Beyond trade, the Philippines and UAE already collaborate on investment promotion, energy, logistics, and tourism. Following the signing ceremony, Presidents Marcos and Sheikh Mohamed held a bilateral meeting to discuss trade, defense, and sustainable development.

“Our discussions today reinforced our shared commitment to grow trade while ensuring sustainable development benefits both nations,” Sheikh Mohamed said.

Analysts believe that the agreement will not only increase the volume of Philippine exports but also attract more UAE investment into the Philippines. The partnership is expected to generate new opportunities for Filipino professionals and service providers across multiple sectors.

“We see this as a foundation to expand Philippine-UAE ties for years to come,” Marcos added.

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