The Department of Trade and Industry is working to resolve agricultural concerns in its pending free trade agreements with the European Union and Chile, aiming to conclude negotiations within the year.
Trade Secretary Maria Cristina A. Roque explained that the original deadline for completing the EU agreement had been postponed, but progress continues.
She noted a brief stalemate over agricultural provisions and highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Agriculture Secretary to reach a compromise.
Both parties remain committed to finalizing the accord this year, with a signing ceremony scheduled for next year, emphasizing the mutual benefits of the deal.
A recent breakthrough addressed a government procurement issue, though further details were not disclosed.
The European Union is the Philippines’ fifth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $18.10 billion in 2025.
Negotiations aim to replace the expiring Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus, which allows over 6,000 Philippine products duty‑free access to the EU until 2027.
Discussions with Chile continue, focusing on unresolved agricultural matters; ministerial-level talks emphasize the desire to finalize the agreement.
In 2025, Philippine exports to Chile totaled $45.4 million, while imports reached $115 million.
These agreements form part of a broader strategy to strengthen trade relationships amid shifting global dynamics.
