As strategic partners, Australia and the Philippines are dedicated to strengthening their shared economic security and expanding bilateral trade and investment.
The two countries share a deep trade and investment relationship, underpinned by robust trade agreements such as the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
The Philippines is an attractive destination for Australian investment, as demonstrated by the recent entry of Anko, one of Australia’s most popular home and lifestyle brands. Anko launched its first Philippine store at Glorietta Makati last November, with plans for additional store openings in 2025.
Over 250 major Australian companies operate in the Philippines, collectively employing 44,000 Filipinos. These businesses are driving positive change by enhancing skills, facilitating technology transfer, and creating new jobs.
There is significant potential for growth. Australia aspires to lift the Philippines from its current position as the 20th largest trading partner to among its top trading partners and Australia supports the country’s ambition to achieve upper middle-income status.
To unlock this potential, Australia has identified four key focus sectors in the Philippines: Agriculture and Food; Education and Skills; Mining; and Green Energy Transition. The Philippines’ need for high-quality investments in capital, expertise, and technology aligns with Australia’s strengths in these areas.
Australia is also committed to supporting inclusive economic growth in the Philippines. To this end, the two governments are collaborating on a new PHP 1.7-billion economic growth program, among other initiatives. This program aims to support the Philippine economy by enhancing the business enabling environment, supporting economic management reforms, and fostering investment in strategic sectors that benefit both the Philippines and Australia such as clean energy and mining.
By combining Australian innovation and investment with Philippine dynamism and potential, this bilateral partnership is a model of effective international cooperation. Together, Australia and the Philippines are not just participants in the evolving global economy—they are active architects of a more prosperous future for this region.