After EU-Philippines trade breakthrough, is Asean-wide deal next?

AI Summary

The European Union and the Philippines have reached a substantial free trade agreement after years of stalled negotiations. This deal could serve as a foundation for an overarching ASEAN-wide trade pact, enhancing regional economic integration.

After a decade of start-stop negotiations, the European Union and the Philippines have found their way to a “substantial agreement” on free trade – one that analysts say could pave the way for Brussels to lock in an Asean-wide pact. The breakthrough, announced on Tuesday, capped talks that began in 2016 and stalled a year later, only to resume again in 2024. “I am proud to say we have delivered a substantial agreement that reflects the ambition both sides brought to the table,” EU trade chief...