ABU DHABI — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan witnessed the historic signing of the Philippines-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on January 14, 2026, during Marcos’ official visit to the United Arab Emirates. The agreement, described as the Philippines’ most comprehensive trade deal to date, aims to significantly boost bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place at Qasr Al Shati Palace in Abu Dhabi, attended by senior officials from both governments including Philippine Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual and UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi.
Key Highlights of the PH-UAE CEPA
- Tariff Elimination/Reduction — Immediate elimination or phased reduction of tariffs on over 90% of traded goods, covering electronics, processed food, agriculture, machinery, and consumer products.
- Services & Investment — Liberalized access in key sectors: financial services, telecommunications, logistics, construction, tourism, and professional services.
- E-commerce & Digital Trade — Dedicated chapter promoting paperless trade, data flow, and digital signatures — a first for Philippine FTAs.
- Intellectual Property — Stronger protection for Philippine GIs (e.g., Basmati-like rice varieties, Philippine crafts) and trademarks.
- Sustainability & Labor — Provisions on environmental standards, labor rights, and sustainable development.
- Economic Impact Projections (DA & DTI estimates):
- Bilateral trade to increase 30–50% within 5 years (from ~$2.5B in 2025)
- UAE investments in PH infrastructure, renewables, logistics, and food security expected to rise sharply
- Enhanced opportunities for OFWs and Filipino exporters in the Gulf market
President Marcos stated during the signing:
“This CEPA is more than a trade agreement — it is a partnership for shared prosperity, innovation, and sustainable development. The UAE is a trusted friend, and this deal opens new doors for Filipino businesses, workers, and families.”
The agreement is expected to take effect in mid-to-late 2026 after ratification by both countries’ legislatures and completion of domestic procedures.
This marks the Philippines’ second major CEPA (after the PH-Japan EPA in 2008) and the UAE’s first with an ASEAN member state outside the ASEAN-UAE FTA framework.
Here are key photos from the signing ceremony — President Marcos and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the bilateral delegations, and the ceremonial exchange of documents.
A major diplomatic and economic win for the Philippines — the CEPA is expected to create jobs, boost exports, and attract Gulf investments in the years ahead!