UAE and Philippines Launch New Economic Partnership Agreement

In a move reflecting the increasing economic engagement of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Asia, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos witnessed the signing of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. This agreement marks a new phase in trade and investment cooperation, elevating the bilateral relationship to deeper and more impactful levels.

Broadening Bilateral Relations

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed emphasized that the UAE-Philippines relationship is evolving based on a shared vision aimed at realizing mutual interests and promoting sustainable growth opportunities. He expressed hope that the agreement would represent a significant leap in economic collaboration between the two nations.
He highlighted that the agreement embodies the UAE's approach to establishing effective international partnerships that contribute to prosperity and create opportunities for future generations.

Philippine Support for the Agreement

President Marcos welcomed the signing of the agreement, viewing it as a strategic step to enhance economic cooperation, reaffirming his country's commitment to implementing its provisions to support shared development goals.

Focus on Strategic Sectors and Mutual Benefits

The agreement was signed during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and aims to lower tariffs, eliminate trade barriers, and promote bilateral investments, focusing on vital sectors such as electrical equipment, financial services, agriculture, and precious metals.
It also aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises, strengthen supply chains, and facilitate knowledge exchange between the private sectors of both countries.

Trade Figures Reflecting Partnership Strength

The value of non-oil trade between the UAE and the Philippines was $940 million in 2024, with $853.7 million recorded in the first nine months of 2025, demonstrating a notable annual growth rate of 22.4%.
The UAE is the largest market for Philippine exports in the Arab and African regions and ranks seventeenth globally among its trading partners.

Part of a Broader Emirati Strategy

This agreement is part of the UAE's comprehensive economic partnership program, which serves as a fundamental pillar in its plan to increase non-oil trade to $1.1 trillion by 2031 and strengthen its position as a global trade and investment hub.