Canada says Philippines, ASEAN trade talks 90% complete, eyes November finish
Ottawa says the talks are aimed at diversifying trade and boosting energy and infrastructure investment, with more than five LNG projects on Canada’s Pacific coast.
- Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu announced in Manila on Tuesday that Canada is nearing completion on free trade agreements with the Philippines and ASEAN, more than 90% complete, with both deals targeted for finalization before Prime Minister Mark Carney's November visit.
- These negotiations form part of Ottawa's strategy to diversify economic ties and strengthen supply chains as global uncertainties mount. Sidhu told Reuters, "There's energy from both sides to get a deal done, and that's the most important part."
- Energy remains Canada's primary offering for Southeast Asian economies facing disruptions from the Strait of Hormuz. Canada is funding the Luzon Economic Corridor, a manufacturing hub, and sees opportunities in the Philippines' growing data centre sector.
- Such trade agreements typically encourage companies to pursue new projects and partnerships by signalling government support for closer economic ties. This positions Canada as a key energy and infrastructure partner for the region.
- Sidhu emphasized the push to deepen ties is "not about one particular country," adding, "Plan A was always diversification, regardless of what happens with our partners." The strategy reflects Canada's broader effort to reduce dependency on any single trading relationship.
10 Articles
10 Articles
Canada: Trade agreements with PH, ASEAN 90% complete, eyes November finish
Canada's trade minister said on Tuesday that negotiations on separate free trade agreements with the Philippines and ASEAN are more than 90% complete, with Ottawa pushing to have both deals ready by the time Prime Minister Mark Carney visits Manila in November.
Canada says Philippines, ASEAN trade talks 90% complete, eyes November finish
Canada's trade minister said on Tuesday that negotiations on separate free trade agreements with the Philippines and ASEAN are more than 90% complete, with Ottawa pushing to have both deals ready by the time Prime Minister Mark Carney visits Manila in November.
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