Philippines, UAE to sign free trade dealMANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is set to sign a free trade agreement (FTA) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in mid-January, a move expected to elevate bilateral relations to new heights. Trade Secretary Cristina Roque told reporters that the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) would take place sometime between January 11 and 14 in the UAE. The CEPA aims to expand bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the Philippines and the UAE. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the UAE was the Philippines’ 18th biggest trading partner, with bilateral trade amounting to $1.83 billion last year. Roque said she is set to meet with companies in the UAE to discuss business opportunities in the Philippines.

Source: Philippine Star December 29, 2025 16:42 UTC