Manila: Philippine exports in January saw a significant rise of 7.9 percent, totaling USD7.1 billion compared to USD6.6 billion recorded during the same period last year. This growth indicates a 13-month upward trend, marking the longest expansion period in over a year and the highest export level since October 2025.
According to Philippines News Agency, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority highlighted that electronic products continued to be the dominant export in January, contributing over USD4 billion and comprising 56.5 percent of total shipments. Gold followed with export earnings of USD488.8 million, while machinery and transport equipment contributed USD383.2 million.
In terms of commodity groups, manufactured goods led the total exports with USD5.6 billion, accounting for 79.3 percent, while mineral products made up USD732.3 million, or 10.3 percent. This increase came after nickel ore shipments resumed earlier this year, recovering from weather-related disruptions in late 2025. Citing industry sources, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) noted that export volumes of critical minerals rebounded at the start of 2026 due to renewed production and stable global demand.
Agro-based products recorded USD573.8 million, representing 8.1 percent of total exports. The DTI reported that fresh banana shipments increased due to higher output and stronger demand compared to last year, while desiccated coconut exports benefited from improved prices year on year.
In terms of export destinations, the United States remained the Philippines' largest market, with USD1.2 billion or 16.4 percent of total shipments. This was followed by Hong Kong (USD1.1 billion, or 15.9 percent); Japan (USD871.7 million, or 12.3 percent); China (USD691.8 million, or 9.8 percent); and South Korea (USD391.8 million, or 5.5 percent).
The DTI emphasized that the country's aggressive expansion of market access has been a key factor in sustaining this growth. As of 2026, over 70 percent of Philippine exports were sent to markets where the country holds Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Generalized Schemes of Preferences (GSP).
The DTI stated, "This strategic advantage is a direct result of the Philippines securing its most extensive list of FTAs in history under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. By prioritizing high-impact bilateral and multilateral deals, the PBBM administration has effectively opened doors for Filipino businesses, surpassing the trade-reaching milestones of all previous administrations."
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque expressed that the government intends to build on this performance by further expanding market reach, strengthening value chains, and enhancing exporter support to ensure steady growth throughout the year.
