Phl-Canada pact opens new markets

More Canadian clients for Filipino freelancers and bigger export markets for local businesses are among the potential gains of the proposed Philippines-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA), as both countries move closer to opening new opportunities for Filipino talent and homegrown products.

The proposed trade pact could give Filipino online workers greater access to Canadian clients while helping micro, small and medium enterprises reach more buyers, secure bigger orders and expand beyond the domestic market.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney witnessed Saturday the exchange of a joint statement announcing the conclusion of FTA negotiations during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit and Related Summits at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.