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PH, Israel Eye Free Trade Agreement to Spur Investments

NPO

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July 30, 2025

MANILA – The Philippines and Israel are moving to start negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA), a step expected to drive more Israeli investments into the country, particularly in agriculture and food technology.

Israel’s Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat confirmed that both nations “are starting the process” of initiating talks for a trade deal.“Usually, it takes a few years to sign an FTA. By defining that we will, many investors will start collaborating now,” Barkat said during a reception in Taguig City on Tuesday.

He added that the announcement alone could create an immediate impact. “When investors see that in a year or two there’s going to be an FTA, they start to invest already.”
Barkat cited agricultural technology and food technology as key sectors where Israeli firms are eager to expand operations in the Philippines.

“My goal is to have 10 times more trade in 15 to 20 years with all countries, including the Philippines. To scale to such volumes, we need to lay the foundation for long-term infrastructure, and that’s what we’re doing on this visit,” he said in an interview with the Philippine News Agency.
Barkat is in Manila from July 28 to 30 with a business mission aimed at increasing economic exchanges between the two nations. He has met with Filipino officials, including Trade Secretary Cristina Roque.

In his recent State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reiterated that the Philippines is ready to welcome both local and foreign investors, particularly in agriculture.

NPO News Team

PNA-PR