Vancouver: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have reiterated their commitment to conclude negotiations for a Philippines-Canada free trade agreement (FTA) by the end of 2026. Speaking at the Vancouver Convention Centre, Marcos and Carney expressed their determination to accelerate efforts towards finalizing the proposed trade deal, while also continuing negotiations for the ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement.

According to Philippines News Agency, both leaders emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral trade, resisting economic coercion, and building resilient supply chains. Prime Minister Carney highlighted the progress made in FTA negotiations and expressed optimism for its finalization. He noted that the agreement would provide "enormous opportunity" once implemented, further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Carney acknowledged the Philippines as one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia and the world. He expressed confidence that bilateral trade could triple by 2035, given the "great opportunities" available for businesses in both countries. He described the FTA as the foundation of a new strategic partnership between Canada and the Philippines.

During his official visit, President Marcos plans to meet with Canadian business leaders from sectors such as mining, information technology-business process management (IT-BPM), and energy to explore opportunities for deeper commercial ties. He expressed optimism about increased Canadian investments in the Philippines as the economic cooperation between the two countries expands.

The bilateral merchandise trade between the Philippines and Canada reached USD3.4 billion in 2025, marking a 7.4 percent increase from USD3.2 billion in 2024. Additionally, bilateral trade in services was valued at USD3.2 billion in 2024, a 19.9 percent rise from USD2.7 billion in 2023.