Joint Statement on UK-Philippines Joint Economic and Trade Committee

The United Kingdom and the Philippines have concluded the second Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) Ministerial Meeting, marking a significant milestone in the breadth and depth of our enduring partnership. Against a backdrop of shared democratic values, expanding trade opportunities, and a mutual commitment to sustainable growth, both sides reaffirmed their determination to translate high-level dialogue into practical benefits for businesses, industries, and communities on both sides of the world.

Key outcomes and commitments

1. Strengthened economic cooperation
The Ministers emphasised a shared ambition to diversify and deepen trade and investment links. They welcomed progress on sector-specific collaborations, recognising the potential for synergies in sectors such as infrastructure, technology, life sciences, creative industries, and professional services. Both sides underscored the importance of predictable and open market access, transparent regulations, and a business-friendly environment that fosters innovation and competitiveness.

2. Sustainable growth and resilience
There was a clear focus on sustainable development, including how trade and investment can support decarbonisation, resilience to climate risks, and the transition to greener economies. The discussions highlighted opportunities for green finance, climate-resilient infrastructure, and sustainable supply chains. Ministers affirmed their commitment to aligning economic collaboration with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards and to sharing best practices across public‑private partnerships.

3. Support for trade facilitation and SMEs
recognising that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of both economies, the meeting endorsed continued efforts to reduce red tape, streamline customs processes, and improve market access for SMEs. The parties agreed to expand knowledge transfer, capacity-building programmes, and digital trade initiatives to help smaller firms participate more effectively in bilateral and multilateral value chains.

4. People-to-people links and collaboration
The Joint Committee reiterated the importance of people-to-people ties, including professional exchanges, education, and cultural collaboration. Ministers welcomed ongoing bilateral cooperation in higher education, science and innovation, and skills development to ensure a steady pipeline of talent ready to meet evolving industry needs.

5. Governance, transparency, and digital governance
A commitment to robust governance and transparent decision-making featured prominently. Both sides recognised the transformative potential of digital technologies to streamline public services, reduce corruption risks, and improve regulatory clarity for businesses. Plans were laid to explore digital trade measures, data governance, and cross-border data flows within the framework of established standards and privacy protections.

6. Next steps and timelines
The Ministers agreed on clear follow-up actions and timelines, with working groups to continue technical discussions in priority areas. They welcomed the establishment of enhanced mechanisms for monitoring progress, including joint reviews and quarterly updates to ensure momentum is maintained. Both sides expressed a shared optimism that practical outcomes will translate into tangible benefits for businesses and citizens alike.

Global context and continued partnership

The conclusions of the second JETCO Ministerial Meeting reflect a broader strategic alignment between the United Kingdom and the Philippines as they navigate an increasingly interconnected and competitive global economy. As partners, we remain committed to open trade, high standards of governance, and a collaborative approach to addressing common challenges—from economic diversification and digital transformation to climate resilience and sustainable development.

The United Kingdom and the Philippines look forward to building on this momentum through a proactive programme of sectoral collaborations, exchange of best practices, and intensified dialogue across government, industry, and academia. In doing so, both nations will continue to create opportunities that empower businesses, support workers, and contribute to a more prosperous, secure, and sustainable future.

September 22, 2026 at 02:23PM
英国—菲律宾联合经济和贸易委员会联合声明

这是英国和菲律宾在第二届联合经济与贸易委员会部长级会议结束时发表的联合声明。

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