Recto says free trade deal with UAE to provide jobs for Pinoys

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said Friday the free trade deal between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is expected to generate employment, lower consumer prices, and unlock new opportunities for Filipinos.

Signed on January 13, 2026 in Abu Dhabi, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is the Philippines’ first free trade deal with a Middle Eastern country, opening doors to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

“Isa itong malaking hakbang para palawakin ang global trade footprint ng Pilipinas,” Recto said in a press release.

(This is a huge step in expanding the Philippines’ global trade footprint.)

“Para sa bawat Pilipino, ang ibig sabihin nito ay mas maraming dekalidad na trabaho, mas abot-kaya ang presyo ng bilihin, at mas maraming oportunidad para sa ating mga negosyo at propesyonal, dito man sa bansa o sa UAE,” he added. 

(This means more quality jobs for Filipinos, lower prices of goods, and more opportunities for businesses and professionals in the Philippines and in UAE.) 

The free trade deal will lower tariffs, expand market access for goods and services, boost investments, and create opportunities for Filipino professionals in high-demand sectors. 

It also targets at least 90% liberalization of tariff lines and trade value.

According to Recto, Filipino farmers and manufacturers are expected to gain from improved access for key products such as bananas, pineapples, canned tuna, electronics, and machinery, which will help sustain their livelihoods. 

This will also support regional growth across the country, Recto said. 

Filipino professionals and workers in healthcare, construction, IT, tourism, education, and other service sectors will also benefit from expanded, non-discriminatory access to the UAE market. 

Recto, meanwhile, said the agreement would also make it easier for Filipino entrepreneurs to compete and grow in global markets, with provisions that will support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), digital trade, and technical cooperation.

Bilateral trade between the Philippines and the UAE reached nearly USD1.83 billion in 2024, with the UAE accounting for almost 40% of Philippine exports to the Middle East. 

Recto said preliminary estimates suggested that CEPA could boost Philippine exports to the UAE by over 9%.

The CEPA will also strengthen the Philippines’ existing network of free trade agreements with Japan, South Korea, the European Free Trade Association, ASEAN countries, and other partners, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). —AOL, GMA Integrated News