The Philippines and Chile have agreed to advance negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to enhance economic cooperation.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque met with Chilean Trade vice minister Claudia Sanhueza on May 15, 2025 on the sidelines of the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade (MRT) meeting in Jeju to formally push the initiative forward.
“CEPA will serve as a modern, forward-looking framework that supports inclusive and sustainable trade,” Roque said.
The CEPA is envisioned to go beyond traditional trade in goods and services by incorporating modern chapters such as digital trade, labor, and sustainability.
The two countries agreed to pursue CEPA in December 2024, and the formal opening of talks signals a shared commitment to closer economic integration.
Roque also discussed the Philippines’ plan to formally apply for membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) within the first half of the year.
“We thank Chile for its continued support, particularly during our Joint Economic Committee meeting last November. We look forward to its engagement throughout our CPTPP accession process,” Roque said.
Chile likewise expressed its intent to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).
“Chile’s participation would further strengthen RCEP, given its strong credentials as an open, dynamic economy,” Roque said.
