PH–UAE Trade Pact Seen to Strengthen Economic Resilience, Says PCCI

Business | Trading Posted on 2026-01-14 11:46:49

MANILA — The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is expected to deliver long-term gains for the Philippine economy by strengthening trade resilience, expanding market access, and opening new opportunities for Filipino businesses, according to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI).

The CEPA was signed Tuesday on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 Summit at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center. Trade Secretary Cristina Roque signed the agreement on behalf of the Philippines, based on a statement released Wednesday by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan witnessed the signing.

In a separate statement, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry hailed the agreement as “a landmark step in expanding Philippine trade, investment, and global market access.”

“The UAE is not only a key destination for Philippine exports, but also a strategic global gateway linking Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe,” PCCI President Perry Ferrer said.

Ferrer noted that the agreement provides exporters, investors, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with a stronger platform to expand their presence in the UAE and the broader Middle East. He added that CEPA will help diversify the country’s trade partnerships and lessen dependence on traditional export markets.

By tapping into the UAE’s advanced logistics and re-export networks, Ferrer said the agreement enhances trade resilience and supports sustainable, long-term economic growth.

The deal is also expected to unlock fresh opportunities in key sectors such as food and agriculture, manufacturing, construction materials, and digital and professional services. It allows Filipino service providers to compete under more predictable and non-discriminatory rules.

“Finally, we have an agreement that enables our small businesses to export products, offer services, and partner with UAE companies more easily,” Ferrer said.

— NPO News Team | PNA-PR

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