Canada views growing opportunities to expand trade with the Philippines as global markets adjust to the uncertainty created by United States tariff policies.
Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald said the shifting tariff measures by Washington present both challenges and opportunities. While acknowledging concerns, he stressed that these developments allow Canada to strengthen ties with partners such as the Philippines. He noted that both governments share an interest in closer cooperation in agriculture and food trade.
MacDonald described Canada as a reliable partner and underscored the need for diversification. He said that countries must lessen reliance on trade partners whose policies create unpredictability.
Canada’s Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman confirmed that the two countries are engaged in scoping discussions on a possible free trade agreement. Although formal negotiations have not started, Hartman expressed optimism that progress in Canada’s dialogue with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Philippines’ hosting of the 46th ASEAN Summit next year could advance discussions.
MacDonald is leading a ministerial mission to Indonesia, Singapore, and the Philippines to promote agricultural and agri-food trade. The Philippines was Canada’s 16th largest agri-food and seafood export market in 2024. Major Canadian exports include pork, pork products, wheat, meat offal, pulses, and processed foods.
Canada imported about CAD 250 million dollars, or roughly USD 183 million, in agri-food and seafood products from the Philippines in 2024, with coconut oil as the main import.
(Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer)
