The Philippines is advancing negotiations with the European Union to expedite a free trade agreement, according to Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, who highlighted new partnership opportunities in trade and maritime cooperation. During a joint briefing with Belgium’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, Lazaro emphasized the strategic importance of aligning with Brussels’ application to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Treaty of Amity and Cooperation as a foundational step toward the FTA.
Lazaro outlined the potential benefits of the agreement, including streamlined trade processes through simplified rules of origin and enhanced market access. While the initial target for finalizing the FTA had been mid-2026, she acknowledged delays due to the complexity of negotiations, noting ongoing efforts to resolve remaining challenges.
The discussions with Prévot identified new areas for maritime collaboration, focusing on education, seafarers’ welfare, and legal frameworks. Trade and investment priorities also expanded to include semiconductors, renewable energy, creative industries, and academic partnerships, reflecting evolving economic interests.
Prévot highlighted growing Belgian business engagement in the Philippines, citing companies such as Puratos, Deme, and Umicore as examples of the strong potential for deeper economic ties. He reiterated Belgium’s commitment to supporting the FTA negotiations and upholding the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, particularly as the Philippines marks a decade since its 2016 arbitration victory. Brussels remains in the process of ratifying its Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.
Prévot reaffirmed Belgium’s advocacy for concluding the EU-Philippines FTA, stressing the mutual benefits for trade and regional stability. Both officials underscored the need for accelerated progress to solidify economic and diplomatic partnerships.
