<h1>India and Philippines to Sign Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement by January to Boost Trade and Transparency.</h1> India and the Philippines are set to sign a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) to facilitate transparent information exchange on banking and tax matters. Negotiations are underway, with the agreement expected to be signed by January next year. The announcement was made during a meeting between India's Finance Minister and his Philippines counterpart. Additionally, both countries have operationalized the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, boosting bilateral trade from $443.63 million in 2003-04 to $1061.84 million in 2009-10. The State Bank of India plans to open a branch in Manila, enhancing banking ties. Further cooperation is anticipated in education, tourism, and manufacturing sectors.