Canada moved two trade negotiations forward in Manila on November 14, announcing a completed negotiation with the Philippines and substantial conclusion of talks with ASEAN. Both tracks are aimed at signatures in 2027. The announcements concern agreements still moving toward implementation, rather than tariff reductions already taking effect.

The ASEAN initiative covers an economic bloc that was Canada’s fifth-largest merchandise trading partner in 2025. Two-way goods trade reached C$52.5 billion that year, according to the prime minister’s office. Canada announced C$5 million in assistance to help ASEAN economies prepare for ratification and benefit from the agreement once it enters into force.

The Philippine agreement follows a year of negotiations. Ottawa identifies agriculture and forest products among the Canadian sectors that could benefit from greater access. Its projections for additional exports and jobs depend on future implementation. Businesses therefore have a negotiating milestone to assess while the remaining signature and ratification work proceeds.