PH, France eye stronger economic ties

The Philippines and France are strengthening their economic partnership by exploring deeper cooperation in key sectors such as infrastructure, transport, aviation, agriculture, and security.

During their 11th Joint Economic Committee meeting, both nations discussed initiatives aimed at enhancing their bilateral economic relations, including projects that could interest French companies.

France has expressed interest in areas including public works, infrastructure development, aviation, railways, agriculture, cybersecurity, film development, human capital development, and tourism.

France was the Philippines' 19th trading partner in 2024, with a total trade value of US$1.54 billion, and its 20th largest export market.

Trade between the two nations has seen a consistent growth of 4.3% over the past decade.

The Philippines and the European Union resumed FTA negotiations in March 2024 and held further discussions in 2025, with France's support considered crucial for their finalization.