Two of the country’s largest business organizations welcomed the signing of the Philippines-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) as a landmark step in expanding trade, investment and economic ties with one of the Middle East’s most strategic commercial hubs.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport) said CEPA significantly improves market access for Filipino exporters, investors, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). They noted that the UAE serves as a gateway to markets across the Middle East, the Gulf Cooperation Council, Africa and Europe.
“The UAE is not only a major export destination but a global trade and logistics hub. CEPA gives Filipino exporters, investors and SMEs a stronger platform to grow in the UAE and across the wider region,” PCCI president Perry Ferrer said.
Philexport president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said the agreement delivers a major boost to the export sector and the broader economy.
“The UAE is not only one of our important export destinations but also a strategic hub for global trade. This agreement will help Philippine exporters expand their presence in the Middle East and beyond,” Ortiz-Luis said.
With Philippine exports to the UAE reaching nearly $390 million last year and gaining momentum into 2025, the groups said CEPA is expected to deepen market access, reduce trade barriers and improve competitiveness in key sectors such as electronics, food and agribusiness, machinery, and construction materials.
They also cited opportunities in digital trade, professional services, ICT and BPO, healthcare and tourism, noting that CEPA provides clearer, more predictable and nondiscriminatory rules for service providers.
“By opening new channels through the UAE’s logistics and re-export networks, CEPA makes Philippine trade more resilient and better positioned for long-term growth,” Ferrer added.
PCCI and Philexport welcomed provisions supporting MSMEs and highlighted CEPA’s framework for increased UAE investments in the Philippines, which are expected to bring capital, technology and jobs in manufacturing, infrastructure, digital trade and energy.
The business groups commended the government’s negotiating team and called for strong implementation through clear rules, trade facilitation and active private-sector engagement.
