DTI Boosts Exporter Aid Amid Global Trade Disruptions

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is intensifying support for Philippine exporters as global trade grows more volatile and competitive.

The agency’s ramped-up assistance includes digital tools, international market engagement, and capacity-building initiatives aligned with the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023–2028.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque said these efforts are part of a broader push under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda to reimagine the country’s export sector.

“The Philippine export sector is being fundamentally reimagined under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda, evolving into a vibrant force for inclusive and sustainable growth,” Roque said.

She added that the goal is to equip every Filipino exporter with “the essential tools, crucial knowledge, and expanded market access necessary to excel on the global stage.”

As global trade faces persistent challenges—ranging from inflationary pressures to supply chain disruptions and protectionist trade policies—DTI is banking on innovation and collaboration to keep Filipino businesses globally competitive.

“Through a concerted effort in accelerating export and research and development, cultivating strong strategic alliances, and prioritizing talent development across the sector, we are not merely overcoming current trade hurdles,” Roque said.

“We’re actively constructing a more robust, future-proof economy, positioning Filipino exporters at the forefront of global commerce and innovation,” she added.

Global Presence, Recognition

From January to May, the DTI’s Export Marketing Bureau (EMB) led the country’s participation in major international trade fairs and business missions across the Middle East, Europe, Americas and East Asia. These included Gulfood Dubai, TuttoFood Milano, THAIFEX-Anuga Asia, HIMSS Global Health Conference, Franchising Expo Sydney, and Nordic Game.

The Middle East mission alone generated USD 27.28 million in export sales, while the healthcare services sector recorded USD 79 million in actual and potential sales at HIMSS 2025.

Beyond sales, Filipino exporters are gaining international recognition. Miguelito’s Ice Cream successfully entered the Australian market, while Avocadoria  prepares to launch in Gold Coast. Fisherfarms’ Corn and Coconut Breaded Shrimp was recognized as a finalist at the THAIFEX 2025 Taste Innovation Show. In addition, its Deboned Milkfish in Chili Spiced Coconut Cream was also named a finalist for Best Frozen/Chilled Product at the prestigious Gulfood Innovation Awards 2025. Lionheart Farms’ The Power of Slow power Coconut Flower Sap Drink Carbonated Calamansi made history as the only Philippine beverage finalist at the same event.

Furthermore, through the support of the ARISE Plus Philippines’ Quality Champions Programme led by the Department, LMG Food Products Corporation also earned dual certifications in food safety and halal compliance, strengthening its readiness to compete in global markets, particularly in the Middle East.

Digital Tools and Education

To improve exporters’ access to trade benefits, the DTI-EMB continues to promote the Philippine FTA Information Portal and the FTA Origin Management System. These digital platforms simplify access to tariff rates, origin requirements, and trade documentation. These tools are being rolled out nationwide through technical training sessions for Philippine exporters.

The EMB’s flagship learning series, “Usapang Exports,” conducted 35 sessions in 2024, reaching exporters across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Topics included export documentation, FTA utilization, and digital trade tools such as Tradeline Philippines and the International Trade Centre’s (ITC’s) Trade Map. The program also supports women-led businesses through the SheTrades Philippines Hub.

Policies and Support

Under the CREATE MORE Act (RA 12066), DTI-EMB has started to issue Export-Oriented Enterprise Certifications, granting qualified exporters VAT zero-rating and exemptions to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness.

The Bureau also launched the Philippines–Great Britain Export Handbook and EU Export Guidebooks in partnership with the British Embassy Manila, ITC, and ARISE Plus Philippines, providing MSMEs with practical guidance on regulatory compliance, sustainability, and market entry.

Mindful of the evolving global trade landscape, the DTI has actively engaged Philippine exporters in consultations to assess and address the impact of the US Reciprocal Tariffs and other trade policy shifts. These dialogues have helped identify sector-specific challenges and informed the development of responsive strategies to mitigate risks, diversify markets, and strengthen supply chain resilience. The consultations also serve as a platform for exporters to voice concerns and co-create solutions with government, ensuring that policy responses are grounded in real-world business needs.

The DTI-EMB remains steadfast in its commitment to support Filipino exporters by delivering a wide range of essential services. These include the issuance of Certificates of Origin and Coffee Export Clearances, as well as providing export documentation and accreditation to facilitate seamless international trade.

To help businesses navigate global markets, the EMB also offers product and market advisory, buyer matching services, and trade referrals. It continues to provide timely market intelligence and assists in resolving trade-related complaints, enabling exporters to make informed decisions and address challenges effectively.

In addition, the bureau plays a vital role in trade facilitation and export promotion, ensuring that Philippine products are well-positioned and competitive on the global stage.