UAE and Philippines Forge Comprehensive Economic Partnership
January 13, 2026771 VistasTiempo de lectura: 2 minutos
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In a significant move reflecting the growing economic influence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Asia, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. This agreement marks a new phase of commercial and investment cooperation, deepening bilateral relations.
Expanding Horizons for Cooperation
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed emphasized that the UAE-Philippines relationship is evolving based on a shared vision aimed at mutual interests and sustainable growth opportunities. He expressed hope that the agreement would represent a qualitative shift in economic cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted that the agreement reflects the UAE's commitment to building effective international partnerships that foster prosperity and create opportunities for future generations.
Philippine Reception of the Agreement
President Marcos welcomed the signing of the agreement, viewing it as a strategic step to enhance economic cooperation. He reaffirmed his country's commitment to implementing its provisions to benefit shared development objectives.
Strategic Sectors and Mutual Benefits
Signed during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, the agreement aims to reduce tariffs, eliminate trade barriers, and strengthen 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, bolster supply chains, and facilitate knowledge transfer between the private sectors of both countries.
Trade Numbers Reflecting Partnership Strength
The value of non-oil trade between the UAE and the Philippines reached $940 million in 2024, with $853.7 million recorded in the first nine months of 2025, showing a notable annual growth of 22.4%. The UAE is the largest market for Philippine exports in the Arab and African regions and ranks seventeenth globally among its trade partners.
Part of a Broader UAE Strategy
This agreement is part of the UAE's comprehensive economic partnerships program, a key pillar of its plan to elevate non-oil trade to $1.1 trillion by 2031 and strengthen its position as a global hub for trade and investment.
