Never a better time to partner with Canada

Mabuhay from Canada!

The vibrant streets of Manila tell a story of economic dynamism that showcases the immense opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region, a key priority in Canada’s international trade engagement. As I conclude a highly successful Team Canada Trade Mission to the Philippines, one thing is crystal clear: there has never been a better time for our two nations to deepen our economic partnership.

The numbers speak volumes about our existing relationship. The Philippines is our second-largest export market in Southeast Asia, with our two-way trade valued at 3.4 billion Canadian dollars, reflecting a robust commercial relationship that spans decades.

At the heart of our partnership lies an extraordinary human connection that creates natural bridges between our nations. Our nearly one million strong Filipino-Canadian community serves as powerful ambassadors, facilitating business relationships and deepening cultural understanding between our countries. Meanwhile, more than 25,000 Canadians have made the Philippines their home. These bonds will soon be enhanced by Air Canada’s announcement of direct flights to the Philippines, facilitating business ties and people-to-people exchanges.

The timing of our enhanced engagement couldn’t be more opportune. President Marcos’ recent signing of the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) legislation signals the Philippines’ commitment to creating a more welcoming environment for international investment and partnership. Canada stands ready to respond with expertise in crucial sectors including clean technology, agriculture, infrastructure, digital innovation, and more!

This trade mission has already delivered tangible results. Export Development Canada’s decision to establish an office here demonstrates our long-term commitment. Canadian technology leader OpenText is expanding its innovation center and building on its existing 1,500-person workforce, while Ostrom Climate has chosen Manila as its Asean regional hub. The partnership between Canadian AI firm Lydia AI and Philippine venture capital firm Kickstart Ventures showcases how our technology sectors can collaborate, while the agreement between Canada’s FreeBalance and the Philippine Department of Budget and Management enhances financial management systems.

A particularly significant development was the signing of an administrative agreement to fulfill obligations under our 1983 Nuclear Cooperation Agreement. As a tier-one nuclear nation with expertise across the full supply chain, Canada is uniquely positioned to support the Philippines’ energy goals.

The momentum in our bilateral relationship has led to an exciting new phase: we are beginning exploratory discussions toward a Canada-Philippines Free Trade Agreement. This potential agreement would create unprecedented opportunities for businesses on both sides of the Pacific, reducing barriers and fostering deeper trade and investment partnerships.

Canada’s commitment to the region is backed by substantial investment, with our Indo-Pacific Strategy supported by 2.3 billion Canadian dollars over five years. Our decision to establish the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office in Manila underscores our view of the Philippines as a crucial hub for regional engagement.

The foundation of our partnership extends beyond economics to shared values—commitment to the rule of law and inclusive economic growth. As we look to the future, from sustainable energy solutions to digital transformation, complementary strengths create natural synergies. The path forward is clear: through continued engagement and strategic investment, we can build a more prosperous future for both our nations. Canada stands ready as the partner of choice for the Philippines in its journey of economic transformation.

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