Canadian Women-only Business Mission to the Philippines and Singapore

The Philippines and Singapore offer high-potential and complementary markets for Canadian businesses, particularly in the sectors of food and energy security, infrastructure, digital technology, and security solutions. Both countries have placed strategic emphasis on these industries and offer attractive incentives to foster growth and collaboration. By capitalizing on these dynamic markets, Canadian businesses can establish a strong foothold and tap into the potential for long-term success and mutually beneficial partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.   

The Philippines stands out as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies, with a population of over 115 million and a GDP that has doubled over the past 15 years. Fuelled by a dynamic, young, and tech-savvy population alongside a rapidly expanding middle class, the country offers a vibrant market for Canadian exporters — especially in high-demand sectors such as healthy food products, digital services, sustainable energy, and security solutions. 

In 2023, bilateral trade between Canada and the Philippines reached C$3.4 billion, with Canadian exports led by agricultural goods, mineral resources, and industrial equipment. This strong commercial foundation is expected to expand further as both countries continue exploratory discussions toward a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA), initiated in December 2024, alongside ongoing engagement in the broader ASEAN-Canada FTA negotiations. 

At the same time, rising urbanization and climate-related risks are driving major infrastructure and sustainability initiatives in the Philippines. Programs such as “Build Better More” are unlocking significant public and private investment in transportation, connectivity, and climate-resilient infrastructure. The Philippines Development Plan 2023-2038 also specifies digital transformation as one of its underlying themes, creating an attractive market for Canadian companies in software development, cybersecurity, and AI. Additionally, Canadian expertise on broader security solutions can help protect critical digital and information systems, generating economic value and supporting regional stability and resilience. With a target of sourcing 50 per cent of its energy from renewables by 2040, the Philippines presents strong opportunities in sustainable and resilient cleantech solutions — including energy management, smart grids, and emissions-reduction technologies — positioning the country as both a high-growth market for Canada and a strategic partner in building a more sustainable and inclusive Indo-Pacific future. 

Singapore consistently ranks as one of the world’s most open economies for trade and investment and is one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and wealthy markets. With a GDP of over C$782 billion and home to world-class infrastructure, Singapore is a leader in smart city development, clean energy solutions, and digital technologies. Recognized for its business-friendly regulatory environment, Singapore offers Canadian businesses excellent access to a highly developed, innovation-driven market with strong growth prospects. 

In 2023, bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and Singapore totalled C$3.2 billion, with C$1.7 billion in Canadian merchandise exports driven primarily by industrial goods, electronics, precision instruments, and energy products. As members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), both countries benefit from favourable trade terms and enhanced market access, further deepening commercial ties.  

With limited arable land, Singapore is heavily reliant on food imports, creating valuable opportunities for Canadian agricultural exporters, particularly in high-demand products such as meat, seafood, and plant-based proteins. The city-state's fast-paced lifestyle and growing demand for convenience are also driving interest in dining mobile apps and health-conscious food products. At the same time, Singapore’s ambitious plans to boost domestic food production offers additional opportunities for Canadian agri-tech companies to introduce innovative solutions. 

Singapore's commitment to sustainability, with a goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, creates an attractive market for firms specializing in cleantech and energy-efficient solutions. Coupled with the country’s significant investments in infrastructure development, these efforts are opening doors for stronger collaboration in engineering, construction, and green technologies. Additionally, Singapore’s rapidly expanding digital landscape is fuelling demand for advanced solutions in areas such as AI and cybersecurity, and dual-use technologies that can serve both commercial and security applications, presenting further opportunities for Canadian businesses to contribute to the growth of secure, tech-driven economies across the Indo-Pacific region.