May 14, 2026 – Manila, the Philippines – Global Affairs Canada

Yesterday, the Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, 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:

• 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
• on behalf of the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), 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 in 2026, highlighting their role in strengthening trade and investment ties, enhancing competitiveness and supporting long-term economic growth for both countries. He met with:

• Maria Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, Secretary of Trade and Industry of the Philippines
• Frederick D. Go, Secretary of Finance of the Philippines
• Gilberto E. Teodoro Jr., Secretary of National Defence of the Philippines

Finally, Minister Sidhu engaged with senior business leaders representing the Philippines largest conglomerates, members of the Makati Business Club and of the Private Sector Advisory Council, to highlight Canadian capabilities and secure business partnerships for Canadian and Philippine businesses. He also hosted roundtables with the defence, aerospace and agricultural sectors to discuss Canada’s trade and advocacy tools that help companies expand in the Philippine market. He took the opportunity to emphasize Canada’s expertise as a stable agricultural supplier that supports food security and promotes procurement pathways, partnerships and long-term industrial cooperation in aerospace and defence.