The Philippines anticipates increased collaboration with Indian businesses following the renewal of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Philippines and India that expands provisions for information-sharing on trade regulations, joint policy advocacy, and the coordinated hosting of business delegations and forums.
Signed on August 6, 2025, by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce Philippines Inc. (FICCI PH), the agreement was one of the several signed during the state visit of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to India.
“This partnership is a strong symbol of the growing economic ties between the Philippines and India. It reflects our shared commitment to advancing trade, promoting investment, and creating more opportunities for collaboration between our business communities,” said Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, who witnessed the signing.
The new MOU builds on the initial pact signed in 2019, aiming to streamline market access and ease trade and investment procedures for companies in both countries.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the partnership supports the Philippines’ goal of becoming a regional hub for manufacturing, services, and technology.
“Whether through trade promotion, investment facilitation, or market access initiatives, we will continue to support efforts that benefit both our economies and contribute to inclusive, sustainable growth,” Roque added.
The agreement also aligns with ongoing bilateral discussions exploring collaboration in high-potential sectors such as pharmaceuticals, IT, agribusiness, and consumer goods.
