Trade & Investments

The Philippines has concluded negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Chile, securing its first free trade agreement with a Latin American country as Manila steps up efforts to diversify export markets and strengthen supply chains.

The European Union is calling for greater flexibility from both sides as negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Philippines enter what Brussels describes as the "final stretch," raising expectations that a long-awaited pact could soon unlock new trade and investment opportunities.

The Philippines will still face a 12.5 percent tariff on most exports to the US after Washington concluded its latest Section 301 review, finding that Manila had not yet effectively enforced a ban on imports produced through forced labor despite newly adopted reforms.

The Philippines has bolstered its position in the US' ongoing Section 301 tariff review by adopting stricter rules that prohibit the importation of goods produced through forced labor, a move aimed at strengthening supply chain integrity while protecting domestic manufacturers from unfair competition.

The Philippines is set to gain stronger cross-border payment capabilities as Southeast Asian fintech firm Fiuu secures a JCB Direct Acquiring license covering Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines, opening new opportunities for local merchants to tap regional and Japanese consumer spending.