Hanoi (VNA) – The Philippines’ merchandise exports could hit a new record high in 2026, driven by strong global demand for Philippine products, its Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said on May 25.
DTI Secretary Cristina Roque told reporters that the agency is hopeful that 2026 will be another record year for merchandise exports. Last year, Philippine exports of goods reached 84.48 billion USD, the highest recorded since tracking started in 1991. The 2025 export figure was also 15.3% higher than the 73.27 billion USD seen in 2024.
In the first quarter of this year, exports of goods amounted to 22.7 billion USD, up by 12.7% from the 20.14 billion USD in the same period last year.
There’s really potential for the export, Roque said, citing strong demand for Philippine products. She said semiconductors, electronics, minerals and automotive parts continue to drive the country’s exports growth. In terms of agriculture exports, coconuts, bananas, pineapples and even ube are seeing strong demand.
Despite the Middle East conflict that has led to higher fuel and other costs in the domestic market, the official said the DTI remains upbeat on achieving record-high exports this year as the challenges are not unique to the Philippines.
She added that the free trade deals being negotiated by the country are also expected to help boost exports growth.
For his part, President of the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said in an interview that the country’s merchandise exports could set a new record this year. He held that as long as the country’s exports of electronics and key agricultural products remain exempt from US tariffs, Philippine exports are expected to continue to increase.
However, there is a need to continue addressing challenges affecting exporters, including regulatory burdens, access to finance and compliance with standards, he said, noting while the Philippines' overseas shipments are increasing, its neighbours’ are rising much more./.
