India and Philippines discuss $3.9 bn trade boost at 14th joint meeting

India and the Philippines convened the 14th Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment in Manila, noting that bilateral trade reached US$3.9 billion in fiscal year 2025‑26.

The ministers highlighted opportunities for deeper cooperation in sectors such as information and communications technology, pharmaceuticals, energy, construction, film and artificial intelligence, and discussed measures to improve customs, agricultural market access and trade settlement in national currencies.

Participants also reviewed the ASEAN‑India Trade in Goods Agreement and explored a future India‑Philippines Preferential Trade Agreement. The next joint meeting is slated for New Delhi.