FTA INFO PORTAL GOVPH MAP
Philippine Standard Time:
PHILIPPINE TRANSPARENCY SEAL FREEDOM OF INFORMATION PHILIPPINES

Proposed FTA

Details for Proposed FTA

The Significance of the Agreement

Agreement Overview

The proposed ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aims to enhance economic cooperation and reduce trade barriers between the 10 ASEAN member countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and the six GCC member states (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates). This agreement seeks to promote the exchange of goods, services, and investments by granting preferential access, ultimately fostering closer economic ties and boosting bilateral trade and investment.

Key Benefits

Trade Promotion image
Trade Promotion

Reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers to facilitate trade between ASEAN countries and GCC states.

Cooperation and win-win image
Investment Promotion

Encouraging bilateral investments through investment protection and promotion clauses.

Construction site image
Economic Growth

Stimulating economic growth and creating jobs in both regions.

Market access image
Market Access

Providing better market access for ASEAN products in the GCC and vice versa.

Competitiveness enhancement image
Competitiveness Enhancement

Enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in both regions through improved market access and reduced trade costs.

Expected Effects

  • Increased
    Exports
  • Investment
    Inflow
  • Strengthened
    Economic
    Ties
  • Increased Exports

    Expanding the market for Philippine agricultural products, seafood, and electronic goods in GCC countries.

  • Investment Inflow

    Encouraging GCC technology and financial services to invest in the Philippines.

  • Strengthened Economic Ties

    Enhancing mutual economic ties and fostering sustainable growth.

The Significance of the Agreement Signing

The study and proposed negotiations for the ASEAN-GCC FTA represent a significant step towards deepening interregional economic relations. The key significances are:

Enhanced Interregional Relations

The proposed FTA aims to promote stronger economic ties between ASEAN and GCC, facilitating closer cooperation in various sectors. This strengthens diplomatic relations and opens new avenues for collaboration.

Economic Diversification

The agreement supports economic diversification by encouraging trade and investment in a broader range of sectors, reducing dependence on traditional markets, and enhancing economic resilience.

Market Expansion

By negotiating preferential access, both regions can expand their markets and create new opportunities for exporters and investors, leading to increased economic activity and job creation.

Support for SMEs

The proposed FTA aims to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both regions with better access to each other’s markets. This supports the growth and development of SMEs, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the economy.

Regional Economic Integration

The agreement contributes to regional economic integration by strengthening economic linkages between Southeast Asia and the Gulf region, promoting stability, and encouraging cooperation within and between the regions.

Importance of Target Country Markets in the Agreement

Overview of GCC Countries

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) consists of six member states with diverse economies and significant growth potential. The integration of these markets with ASEAN provides vast opportunities for businesses within the regions.

Economic Significance

  1. i. High Income Markets: GCC countries have high income levels and purchasing power, providing a substantial market for ASEAN products.
  2. ii. Strategic Location: The GCC region serves as a strategic gateway to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
  3. iii. Economic Diversification: GCC countries are actively diversifying their economies beyond oil and gas, creating opportunities in various sectors.

Major Industries and Trade Items

Energy

Oil, gas, and renewable energy.

Infrastructure

Construction, transportation, and real estate.

Finance

Banking, insurance, and financial services.

Implementation Schedule of the Agreement (Proposed)

2023 Initial study and consultation phase.

Partner Country Information

Country Overview and Economic Trends

Bahrain Flag
Bahrain
  • Capital

    Manama

  • Language

    Arabic

  • Population

    Approximately 1.7 million

  • Economy

    Diversified economy with strong financial services and manufacturing sectors.

Kuwait Flag
Kuwait
  • Capital

    Kuwait City

  • Language

    Arabic

  • Population

    Approximately 4.3 million

  • Economy

    Rich in oil reserves with a strong focus on energy exports.

Oman Flag
Oman
  • Capital

    Muscat

  • Language

    Arabic

  • Population

    Approximately 4.5 million

  • Economy

    Diversified economy with significant investments in infrastructure and tourism.

Qatar Flag
Qatar
  • Capital

    Doha

  • Language

    Arabic

  • Population

    Approximately 2.9 million

  • Economy

    Leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) with a growing financial sector.

Saudi Arabia Flag
Saudi Arabia
  • Capital

    Riyadh

  • Language

    Arabic

  • Population

    Approximately 35 million

  • Economy

    Largest economy in the GCC, focused on oil, petrochemicals, and infrastructure development.

United Arab Emirates(UAE) Flag
United Arab Emirates(UAE)
  • Capital

    Abu Dhabi

  • Language

    Arabic

  • Population

    Approximately 9.9 million

  • Economy

    Diversified economy with strengths in finance, tourism, real estate, and aviation.

Trade and Investment Opportunities

  • Trade Opportunities

    GCC offers substantial potential for Philippine exports of agricultural products, electronics, and construction materials.

  • Agricultural Products

    High demand for tropical fruits, seafood, and processed foods in the GCC market.

  • Electronics

    Philippine electronic components and appliances are in demand in GCC countries.

  • Construction Materials

    Opportunities for exporting construction materials to support the GCC's infrastructure projects.

  • Investment Opportunities

    There are numerous opportunities for Philippine companies to invest in GCC's technology, finance, and real estate sectors.

  • Technology

    Philippine IT companies can collaborate with GCC tech firms to enhance competitiveness.

  • Finance

    Philippine financial services can enter GCC markets to offer banking and investment solutions.

  • Real Estate

    Opportunities in the booming construction and real estate markets in the GCC region.

The Significance of the Agreement

Agreement Overview

The proposed Philippines-Mexico Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aims to enhance economic cooperation and reduce trade barriers between the Philippines and Mexico. This agreement seeks to promote the exchange of goods, services, and investments by granting preferential access, ultimately fostering closer economic ties and boosting bilateral trade and investment.

Key Benefits

Trade Promotion image
Trade Promotion

Reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers to facilitate trade between the Philippines and Mexico.

Cooperation and win-win image
Investment Promotion

Encouraging bilateral investments through investment protection and promotion clauses.

Construction site image
Economic Growth

Stimulating economic growth and creating jobs in both countries.

Market access image
Market Access

Providing better market access for Philippine products in Mexico and vice versa.

Competitiveness enhancement image
Competitiveness Enhancement

Enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in both countries through improved market access and reduced trade costs.

Expected Effects

  • Increased
    Exports
  • Investment
    Inflow
  • Strengthened
    Economic
    Ties
  • Increased Exports

    Expanding the market for Philippine agricultural products, seafood, and electronic goods in Mexico.

  • Investment Inflow

    Encouraging Mexican technology and financial services to invest in the Philippines.

  • Strengthened Economic Ties

    Enhancing mutual economic ties and fostering sustainable growth.

The Significance of the Agreement Signing

The study and proposed negotiations for the Philippines-Mexico FTA represent a significant step towards deepening bilateral economic relations. The key significances are:

Enhanced Interregional Relations

The proposed FTA aims to promote stronger economic ties between the Philippines and Mexico, facilitating closer cooperation in various sectors. This strengthens diplomatic relations and opens new avenues for collaboration.

Economic Diversification

The agreement supports economic diversification by encouraging trade and investment in a broader range of sectors, reducing dependence on traditional markets, and enhancing economic resilience.

Market Expansion

By negotiating preferential access, both countries can expand their markets and create new opportunities for exporters and investors, leading to increased economic activity and job creation.

Support for SMEs

The proposed FTA aims to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both countries with better access to each other’s markets. This supports the growth and development of SMEs, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the economy.

Regional Economic Integration

The agreement contributes to regional economic integration by strengthening economic linkages between Asia and Latin America, promoting stability, and encouraging cooperation within and between the regions.

Importance of Target Country Markets in the Agreement

Overview of Mexico

Mexico is one of the largest economies in Latin America with a diverse industrial base and significant growth potential. Mexico offers substantial market opportunities for Philippine products and services due to its strategic location and demand for high-quality goods.

Economic Significance

  1. i. Large Consumer Market: Mexico has a vast consumer market with high purchasing power.
  2. ii. Industrial Diversity: Mexico is competitive in various industries such as automotive, electronics, and agriculture.
  3. iii. v

Major Industries and Trade Items

Automotive

Mexico is a leading producer of automobiles and automotive parts.

Electronics

Mexico has a strong electronics industry, including consumer electronics and electronic components.

Agriculture

Mexico is a major producer of agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, and livestock.

Implementation Schedule of the Agreement (Proposed)

2023 Initial study and consultation phase.
2018-2020 Stakeholder consultations and preliminary negotiations.

Partner Country Information

Country Overview and Economic Trends

Mexico Flag
Mexico
  • Capital

    Mexico City

  • Language

    Spanish

  • Population

    Approximately 130 million

  • Economy

    Highly developed and diverse, major industries include automotive, electronics, and agriculture

  • Trade

    In 2023, trade volume with the Philippines was approximately $1 billion, with major Philippine exports being electronic products, seafood, and agricultural products, and major imports being machinery, automotive parts, and chemicals.

Trade and Investment Opportunities

  • Trade Opportunities

    Mexico offers substantial potential for Philippine exports of electronic products, agricultural products, and seafood.

  • Electronic Products

    Philippine electronic components and appliances have high demand in the Mexican market.

  • Agricultural Products

    Philippine mangoes, bananas, and other agricultural products are popular among Mexican consumers.

  • Seafood

    High demand for Philippine tuna, shrimp, and other seafood in Mexico's food market.

  • Investment Opportunities

    There are numerous opportunities for Philippine companies to invest in Mexico's technology, manufacturing, and service sectors.

  • Technology

    Philippine IT companies can collaborate with Mexican tech firms to enhance competitiveness in the global market.

  • Manufacturing

    Philippine manufacturing companies can leverage Mexico's advanced manufacturing technology to improve production efficiency.

  • Services

    Philippine service companies can enter the Mexican market to provide a range of services, including business process outsourcing (BPO) and financial services.

The Significance of the Agreement

Agreement Overview

The proposed ASEAN-Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aims to enhance economic cooperation and reduce trade barriers between the 10 ASEAN member countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and the five EAEU member states (Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia). This agreement seeks to promote the exchange of goods, services, and investments by granting preferential access, ultimately fostering closer economic ties and boosting bilateral trade and investment.

Key Benefits

Trade Promotion image
Trade Promotion

Reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers to facilitate trade between ASEAN countries and EAEU states.

Cooperation and win-win image
Investment Promotion

Encouraging bilateral investments through investment protection and promotion clauses.

Construction site image
Economic Growth

Stimulating economic growth and creating jobs in both regions.

Market access image
Market Access

Providing better market access for ASEAN products in the EAEU and vice versa.

Competitiveness enhancement image
Competitiveness Enhancement

Enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in both regions through improved market access and reduced trade costs.

Expected Effects

  • Increased
    Exports
  • Investment
    Inflow
  • Strengthened
    Economic
    Ties
  • Increased Exports

    Expanding the market for Philippine agricultural products, seafood, and electronic goods in EAEU countries.

  • Investment Inflow

    Encouraging EAEU technology and financial services to invest in the Philippines.

  • Strengthened Economic Ties

    Enhancing mutual economic ties and fostering sustainable growth.

The Significance of the Agreement Signing

The study and proposed negotiations for the ASEAN-EAEU FTA represent a significant step towards deepening interregional economic relations. The key significances are:

Enhanced Interregional Relations

The proposed FTA aims to promote stronger economic ties between ASEAN and EAEU, facilitating closer cooperation in various sectors. This strengthens diplomatic relations and opens new avenues for collaboration.

Economic Diversification

The agreement supports economic diversification by encouraging trade and investment in a broader range of sectors, reducing dependence on traditional markets, and enhancing economic resilience.

Market Expansion

By negotiating preferential access, both countries can expand their markets and create new opportunities for exporters and investors, leading to increased economic activity and job creation.

Support for SMEs

The proposed FTA aims to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (By negotiating preferential access, both regions can expand their markets and create new opportunities for exporters and investors, leading to increased economic activity and job creation.MEs) in both regions with better access to each other’s markets. This supports the growth and development of SMEs, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the economy.

Regional Economic Integration

The agreement contributes to regional economic integration by strengthening economic linkages between Southeast Asia and the Eurasian region, promoting stability, and encouraging cooperation within and between the regions.

Importance of Target Country Markets in the Agreement

Overview of EAEU Countries

The Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) consists of five member states with diverse economies and significant growth potential. The integration of these markets with ASEAN provides vast opportunities for businesses within the regions.

Economic Significance

  1. i. Strategic Market Access: The EAEU provides access to a combined market with a population of over 180 million people.
  2. ii. Resource-Rich Economies: EAEU countries are rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals.
  3. iii. Economic Diversification: EAEU countries are actively diversifying their economies, creating opportunities in various sectors.

Major Industries and Trade Items

Energy

Oil, gas, and renewable energy.

Manufacturing

Machinery, automotive, and industrial equipment.

Agriculture

Grain, meat, and dairy products.

Implementation Schedule of the Agreement (Proposed)

2016 Initial study and consultation phase.
2017-2019 Stakeholder consultations and preliminary negotiations.

Partner Country Information

Country Overview and Economic Trends

Armenia Flag
Armenia
  • Capital

    Yerevan

  • Language

    Armenian

  • Population

    Approximately 3 million

  • Economy

    Small but growing economy with strengths in mining and agriculture.

Belarus Flag
Belarus
  • Capital

    Minsk

  • Language

    Belarusian, Russian

  • Population

    Approximately 9.4 million

  • Economy

    Diversified economy with strong manufacturing and IT sectors.

Kazakhstan Flag
Kazakhstan
  • Capital

    Astana (Nur-Sultan)

  • Language

    Kazakh, Russian

  • Population

    Approximately 19 million

  • Economy

    Rich in natural resources, particularly oil, gas, and minerals.

Kyrgyzstan Flag
Kyrgyzstan
  • Capital

    Bishkek

  • Language

    Kazakh, Russian

  • Population

    Approximately 6.6 million

  • Economy

    Agriculture-based economy with growing mining and textile sectors.

Russia Flag
Russia
  • Capital

    Moscow

  • Language

    Russian

  • Population

    Approximately 146 million

  • Economy

    Largest economy in the EAEU, focused on energy, manufacturing, and services.

Trade and Investment Opportunities

  • Trade Opportunities

    EAEU offers substantial potential for Philippine exports of electronic products, agricultural products, and seafood.

  • Electronic Products

    Philippine electronic components and appliances have high demand in the EAEU market.

  • Agricultural Products

    Philippine mangoes, bananas, and other agricultural products are popular among EAEU consumers.

  • Seafood

    High demand for Philippine tuna, shrimp, and other seafood in the EAEU's food market.

  • Investment Opportunities

    There are numerous opportunities for Philippine companies to invest in EAEU's technology, natural resources, and service sectors.

  • Technology

    Philippine IT companies can collaborate with EAEU tech firms to enhance competitiveness.

  • Natural Resources

    Philippine companies can participate in EAEU's natural resource extraction and processing industries.

  • Services

    Philippine service companies can enter the EAEU market to provide a range of services, including business process outsourcing (BPO) and financial services.

The Significance of the Agreement

Agreement Overview

The proposed Philippines-Chile Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aims to enhance economic cooperation and reduce trade barriers between the Philippines and Chile. This agreement seeks to promote the exchange of goods, services, and investments by granting preferential access, ultimately fostering closer economic ties and boosting bilateral trade and investment.

Key Benefits

Trade Promotion image
Trade Promotion

Reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers to facilitate trade between the Philippines and Chile.

Cooperation and win-win image
Investment Promotion

Encouraging bilateral investments through investment protection and promotion clauses.

Construction site image
Economic Growth

Stimulating economic growth and creating jobs in both countries.

Market access image
Market Access

Providing better market access for Philippine products in Chile and vice versa.

Competitiveness enhancement image
Competitiveness Enhancement

Enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in both countries through improved market access and reduced trade costs.

Expected Effects

  • Increased
    Exports
  • Investment
    Inflow
  • Strengthened
    Economic
    Ties
  • Increased Exports

    Increased Exports: Expanding the market for Philippine agricultural products, seafood, and electronic goods in Chile.

  • Investment Inflow

    Encouraging Chilean technology and financial services to invest in the Philippines.

  • Strengthened Economic Ties

    Enhancing mutual economic ties and fostering sustainable growth.

The Significance of the Agreement Signing

The study and proposed negotiations for the Philippines-Chile FTA represent a significant step towards deepening bilateral economic relations. The key significances are:

Enhanced Interregional Relations

The proposed FTA aims to promote stronger economic ties between the Philippines and Chile, facilitating closer cooperation in various sectors. This strengthens diplomatic relations and opens new avenues for collaboration.

Economic Diversification

The agreement supports economic diversification by encouraging trade and investment in a broader range of sectors, reducing dependence on traditional markets, and enhancing economic resilience.

Market Expansion

By negotiating preferential access, both countries can expand their markets and create new opportunities for exporters and investors, leading to increased economic activity and job creation.

Support for SMEs

The proposed FTA aims to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in both countries with better access to each other's markets. This supports the growth and development of SMEs, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the economy.

Regional Economic Integration

The agreement contributes to regional economic integration by strengthening economic linkages between Southeast Asia and Latin America, promoting stability, and encouraging cooperation within and between the regions.

Importance of Target Country Markets in the Agreement

Overview of Chile

Chile is one of the most stable and prosperous economies in Latin America with a diverse industrial base and significant growth potential. Chile offers substantial market opportunities for Philippine products and services due to its strategic location and demand for high-quality goods.

Economic Significance

  1. i. Stable Economy: Chile has a stable and growing economy with low inflation and strong fiscal policies.
  2. ii. High Purchasing Power: Chileans have a relatively high purchasing power compared to other Latin American countries.
  3. iii. Diverse Economy: Chile is competitive in various industries such as mining, agriculture, and services.

Major Industries and Trade Items

Mining

Chile is the world's largest producer of copper.

Services

Chile has a growing financial services sector and a robust tourism industry.

Agriculture

Chile is a major exporter of fruits, wine, and seafood.

Implementation Schedule of the Agreement (Proposed)

2015 Initial study and consultation phase.
2016-2018 Stakeholder consultations and preliminary negotiations.

Partner Country Information

Country Overview and Economic Trends

Chile Flag
Chile
  • Capital

    Santiago

  • Language

    Spanish

  • Population

    Approximately 19 million

  • Economy

    Highly developed and stable, major industries include mining, agriculture, and services.

  • Trade

    In 2023, trade volume with the Philippines was approximately $1 billion, with major Philippine exports being electronic products, seafood, and agricultural products, and major imports being copper, fruits, and wine.

Trade and Investment Opportunities

  • Trade Opportunities

    Chile offers substantial potential for Philippine exports of electronic products, agricultural products, and seafood.

  • Electronic Products

    Philippine electronic components and appliances have high demand in the Chilean market.

  • Agricultural Products

    Philippine's mangoes, bananas, and other agricultural products are popular among Chilean consumers.

  • Seafood

    High demand for Philippine tuna, shrimp, and other seafood in Chile's food market.

  • Investment Opportunities

    There are numerous opportunities for Philippine companies to invest in Chile's technology, mining, and service sectors.

  • Technology

    Philippine IT companies can collaborate with Chilean tech firms to enhance competitiveness in the global market.

  • Mining

    Philippine companies can participate in Chile's copper mining industry and related sectors.

  • Services

    Philippine service companies can enter the Chilean market to provide a range of services, including business process outsourcing (BPO) and financial services.

Satisfaction Survey

How satisfied were you with the information provided on the page?