By Monsi A. Serrano
The growing trade partnership between Türkiye and the Philippines took center stage as Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines Niyazi Evren Akyol emphasized the vast potential for stronger bilateral economic relations during the recent Türkiye-Philippines business-to-business (B2B) meetings and trade delegation visit in Manila.
Ambassador Akyol described the mission as primarily an exporters’ delegation, composed of Turkish companies from diverse sectors—including food, cosmetics, and retail industries—organized by the Turkish Exporters’ Union in collaboration with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and other key partners.
“The primary aim is to establish long-term partnerships and deeper mutual understanding between Turkish and Filipino businesses,” Ambassador Akyol said. “Big contracts require preparation and trust-building. We see this as a strong start for sustained collaboration.”
This latest trade mission marks the first visit of a Turkish exporters’ delegation to the Philippines in three years, with both sides expressing eagerness to make such engagements an annual initiative.
Bilateral trade on the rise
Despite what the Ambassador called “far from reflecting the real potential,” bilateral trade is showing a positive trajectory. In 2024, Türkiye-Philippines trade reached US$400 million, and in just the first seven months of 2025, the figure has already surpassed US$250 million.
“These numbers may not yet be large for both Türkiye and the Philippines, but they clearly show untapped opportunities,” Ambassador Akyol said. “The effort now is to identify points of synergy and competitive advantages in our products to build upon.”
Ambassador Akyol also highlighted the 76 years of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and the Philippines, underlining cultural similarities between the two peoples as a natural foundation for deeper economic and social ties.
“Türkiye is open for business with Filipino partners, and we are equally eager to welcome more Turkish companies to the Philippines,” Ambassador Akyol said. “Our Embassy remains at the service of the business community to facilitate trade and investment between our two countries.”