Canada and Philippines will deepen the trade ties. Canada has also announced to join the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) Partnership. 

Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu, Thursday concluded his visit to the Philippines. While in Manila, he secured new growth opportunities for Canadian businesses, advanced Canada’s trade diversification agenda and expanded two-way trade and investment in one of Southeast Asia’s fastest growing markets.

Minister Sidhu reiterated Canada’s commitment to mutual economic prosperity and global supply chains resiliency. In support of this, he announced that Canada has accepted the invitation, extended by the Government of the Philippines, and in partnership with the United States and Japan, to join the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) Partnership. The minister also announced on behalf of the Secretary of State (International Development), Randeep Sarai,  a contribution of $2 million to fund targeted technical assistance for a LEC project.

During a visit to Asian Aerospace, Minister Sidhu highlighted the success of Canadian aerospace companies working in the Philippines, such as De Havilland Canada. Strategic partnerships with firms like Asian Aerospace facilitate effective market access, promotion and advance Canadian commercial interests abroad.

The Minister also spoke with Government of the Philippines officials about Canada’s role as a strong, reliable and long‑term trade partner for the Indo-Pacific region and highlighted opportunities for Canadian firms across priority sectors such as agriculture, aerospace and defence. He also reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to concluding negotiations toward the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Canada and Canada-Philippines free trade agreements this year, highlighting their role in strengthening trade and investment ties, enhancing competitiveness and supporting long-term economic growth for both countries.