Philippine exports hit record USD 8.8 billion in June

MANILA — Philippine merchandise exports surged to an all-time high of USD 8.8 billion in June 2026, the highest monthly export value since the Philippine Statistics Authority began its data series in 1991.

Preliminary PSA data showed export sales increased 24.1% from USD 7.1 billion in June 2025.

The expansion was the highest growth rate recorded in 2026 and over the past 12 months.

The record performance signals stronger overseas demand for Philippine products despite uncertain global trade conditions.

Sustaining the gains could support local factories, suppliers, investments, and employment, although the benefits remain heavily dependent on electronics and uneven across agricultural exports.

Electronic products remained the country’s leading export, generating USD 5.25 billion and accounting for 59.9% of total exports in June.

The growth was driven primarily by electronic products, followed by other mineral products and other manufactured goods.

Rapidly increasing demand for artificial intelligence, the internet of things, and investments in hyperscale data centers supported the expansion of components and semiconductors.

Components and semiconductors recorded a 33.4% increase in export revenues.

Manufactured goods remained the country’s largest export category, accounting for 82.2% of total exports in June.

The category posted 30.2% growth from June 2025, nearly four times the growth rate recorded in the previous month.

Coconut oil continued to dominate agro-based exports, generating USD 232.9 million.

Coconut oil exports were 12% higher than their June 2025 level.

Banana exports, however, declined by 20.8% as pests and competition weakened production and export performance.

The downturn underscores the challenges confronting banana farmers and exporters, whose earnings depend on stable production and competitive access to major overseas markets.

The Philippines’ upcoming negotiations with Japan to review preferential tariff treatment for bananas under the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement will be critical to restoring and expanding the country’s position as a major exporter of the commodity.

From January to June 2026, Philippine merchandise exports reached USD 46.72 billion.

The first-half total was 13.1% higher than the USD 41.31 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

It was also the highest first-half export value recorded since 1991.

The United States remained the Philippines’ largest export market in June, purchasing USD 1.76 billion in goods and accounting for 20.1% of total exports.

Hong Kong followed with USD 1.34 billion, representing 15.3% of the total.

The People’s Republic of China received USD 1 billion in Philippine exports, equivalent to an 11.4% share.

Japan accounted for USD 990.16 million, or 11.3% of total exports.

Singapore received USD 508.18 million, representing 5.8% of the total.

Exports to nine of the Philippines’ top 10 markets posted double-digit growth in June 2026.

The broad-based expansion reflected stronger demand across most of the country’s major trading partners.

Japan was the only top-10 destination to record a single-digit growth rate.

Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque welcomed the record export performance and recognized Filipino exporters for expanding their businesses and bringing Philippine products to international markets.

“The historic export performance is a testament to the hard work, resilience and dedication of our Filipino exporters. Despite uncertainties in global trade, they continue to invest in their businesses, create opportunities for our people and proudly carry the Philippine brand into markets around the world,” Secretary Roque said.

Roque said the government has a responsibility to help exporters turn their investments and efforts into sustainable growth.

“We will continuously champion and assist our exporters to ensure that their hard work translates to a broader and stronger presence in the global market.”

She also encouraged export-oriented enterprises to strengthen their position in the domestic market.

“While we help exporters expand their global presence, we also strongly encourage them to tap into and strengthen their presence in our thriving domestic market. Solidifying their base here at home provides a stable platform for sustained growth and generates more local employment opportunities for Filipinos,” she added.

A stronger domestic base could help exporters withstand external disruptions while creating more jobs and business opportunities within the country.

Roque said the Department of Trade and Industry would expand trade promotion, maximize free trade agreements, and connect enterprises with investors and buyers.

“The DTI will prioritize building stronger connections with more trade shows, opening more market opportunities by leveraging our FTAs [Free Trade Agreements], and providing the support our enterprises need to grow globally by linking them with investors and buyers. When the government, industry and exporters work together, we can push our exporters to grow beyond borders and create more opportunities for Filipino businesses to thrive.”

The DTI said it continues to strengthen the country’s export ecosystem through trade promotion, market development, and strategic partnerships.

These initiatives are intended to help Philippine enterprises enter and expand in international markets.

The department recently highlighted these efforts during the DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Exporters’ Fair 2026.

The event brought together more than 200 exporters and export-ready enterprises.

It also gathered 33 export enablers and partner organizations, as well as other industry stakeholders.

The fair featured business-matching activities, learning sessions, consultations, networking events, and product showcases.

The activities created opportunities for Philippine exporters to broaden their market reach.

The event also brought world-class Philippine products closer to Filipino consumers.

The DTI said it remains committed to working with government agencies, industry partners, and the export community.

The collaboration seeks to improve the competitiveness of Philippine enterprises and create more opportunities for Filipino products in global markets.

Information on Philippine exports is available through Tradeline Philippines and the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau.

Export-related inquiries may also be sent to exports@dti.gov.ph, while updates are posted on the bureau’s Facebook page, @dtiemb.