Photo: WAM
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Philippines are working together to grow their friendship by making trade and business between them easier. The UAE has become one of the main places where Filipino products are sold across the Arab and African regions.
In early July this year, both countries signed an important agreement called the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, or CEPA. This agreement is like a big plan that helps businesses in both countries work better together. It removes barriers, makes trade rules easier, and opens new doors for companies and investors.
Not long after the agreement was signed, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE’s Minister of Foreign Trade, held a meeting with members of the Philippines Business Council in the UAE. They discussed how businesses from both countries—especially those in the private sector—can work more closely and find new ways to grow. This meeting was one of the first steps after CEPA was signed, showing how serious both countries are about making the agreement work.
During the meeting, Dr. Al Zeyoudi shared that the UAE considers the Philippines a very important trade partner, especially within the ASEAN region. He pointed out how trade between the two countries has already been doing well and expressed hope that it will grow even stronger in the coming years.
How trade between the UAE and the Philippines is growing
In 2024, the total trade (excluding oil) between the two countries reached around US $940 million. This means they exchanged a large number of goods not related to oil—like food, electronics, clothing, and more.
In just the first three months of 2025, this number had already reached US $257.7 million, which shows that the trade relationship is growing fast.
The UAE is now the top market for Filipino exports in the Arab and African world. It also ranks 17th in the world for Philippine exports overall. This shows a strong base for both countries to grow their trade even more.
Why this partnership matters
This growing partnership brings many benefits for both the UAE and the Philippines. Here are some of the main reasons why this is important:
More Trade Opportunities
CEPA helps lower trade barriers. This means it’s easier and faster for companies in both countries to sell their products to each other. It saves time, cuts costs, and opens the door for new products in both markets.
More Investments
When trade is easier and rules are clearer, businesses are more likely to invest. This could mean new factories, stores, or offices being opened. It could also lead to better cooperation in areas like energy, farming, technology, and tourism.
Helping People Find Jobs
There is a large community of Filipinos living and working in the UAE. Many of them are employed in areas like construction, healthcare, hospitality, and retail. As the partnership between the two countries grows, it could lead to better job opportunities, more support for Filipino workers, and a stronger connection between the communities.
Stronger Economies
With better trade and investments, both the UAE and the Philippines can grow their economies. This means more income, better public services, and stronger support for the people of both nations.
Big Impact of the CEPA Agreement
The CEPA agreement is expected to bring powerful results over the next few years. Experts believe it could help grow the UAE’s economy by US $2.4 billion.
It’s also expected that UAE exports to the Philippines could reach US $7.62 billion by 2032. These exports may include electronics, tools, and other goods that help businesses and everyday life in the Philippines.
Why the Philippines is a strong trade partner
The Philippines is one of the fastest-growing countries in the ASEAN region. ASEAN is a group of Southeast Asian nations working together to improve their economies. In 2024, the Philippines’ economy grew by 5.6%, making it the second fastest-growing economy in the ASEAN group.
The total size of the ASEAN economy is around US $4.13 trillion, which shows how important this region is. For the UAE, partnering with the Philippines is a smart move because it opens up chances to be part of this fast-growing part of the world.
Topic Details
The Agreement CEPA was signed in July to grow trade and investment
The Key Meeting Dr. Al Zeyoudi met with the Philippines Business Council in the UAE
Trade Volume About US $940 million in 2024; US $257.7 million in Q1 of 2025
UAE’s Export Rank Top Arab/African buyer of Philippine products; 17th globally
Growth from CEPA Could add US $2.4 billion to UAE’s economy; UAE exports may hit US $7.62B by 2032
Philippines’ Growth 5.6% GDP increase in 2024; 2nd fastest in ASEAN
Community Impact Filipino workers in the UAE benefit from new business and job opportunities
What this means for the future
The new CEPA agreement is more than just a business deal. It’s a sign of growing trust and teamwork between the UAE and the Philippines. It shows how countries can support each other, not only in trade but also in creating jobs, sharing knowledge, and building stronger communities.
This growing partnership can inspire young people to learn more about economics, international relations, and how countries work together to solve problems and grow.
For Filipino workers in the UAE and business owners in both countries, this deal brings hope for a better future—with more opportunities and a stronger connection between two friendly nations.
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