Philippine exports reach USD 7.1 billion in January

The Philippine export sector extended its growth momentum to 13 consecutive months as total export earnings hit USD 7.1 billion in January 2026, according to preliminary government data.

The total was up from USD 6.6 billion in January 2025, a 7.9% year-on-year increase.

The latest result marked the highest export level since October 2025.

Preliminary figures from the Philippine Statistics Authority attributed the performance to robust growth in electronic products and mineral exports, signaling sustained global demand for Philippine goods.

A major factor behind the sustained growth is the aggressive expansion of market access, with 2026 data showing that more than 70% of Philippine exports were shipped to markets where the country holds free trade agreements and enjoys Generalized Schemes of Preferences.

Trade officials said the expanded access reflects the Philippines’ push for more and wider trade arrangements under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aimed at opening more doors for Filipino exporters through bilateral and multilateral deals.

Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the latest results support the government’s strategy of diversifying and deepening trade ties.

“The broad-based gains across electronics, minerals, and agro-based products demonstrate that Filipino products are already consumed and recognized globally, reflecting the high quality and reliability of our industries,” Roque said.

“We will build on this performance by further deepening market reach through our expanded FTA network, strengthening value chains, and enhancing exporter support to secure steady growth throughout the year,” she said.

Electronic products remained the country’s top export in January, generating more than USD 4 billion and accounting for 56.5% of total shipments.

Industry insights cited in the World Bank Group’s January 2026 Global Economic Prospects report pointed to robust international demand for artificial intelligence-related semiconductor components as a driver of increased semiconductor exports and industrial production.

Gold followed with USD 488.8 million in export earnings.

Machinery and transport equipment added USD 383.2 million.

By commodity group, manufactured goods accounted for the bulk of exports at USD 5.6 billion, or 79.3% of total shipments.

Mineral products brought in USD 732.3 million, or 10.3%, after nickel ore shipments resumed early this year following weather-related disruptions in late 2025.

Industry sources said export volumes of critical minerals rebounded at the start of 2026 due to renewed production and stable global demand.

Agro-based products posted USD 573.8 million, representing 8.1% of total exports.

Fresh banana shipments increased due to higher output and firmer demand compared with a year ago, while desiccated coconut exports rose on stronger prices year on year.

Exporters also continued complying with regulatory requirements in key markets, including additional documentation for certain tuna products under import comparability rules of the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act that took effect Jan. 1, 2026.

By destination, the United States remained the Philippines’ largest export market at USD 1.2 billion, or 16.4% of total shipments.

Other major markets included Hong Kong at USD 1.1 billion, or 15.9%, Japan at USD 871.7 million, or 12.3%, China at USD 691.8 million, or 9.8%, and South Korea at USD 391.8 million, or 5.5%.

For more information on Philippine exports, the Department of Trade and Industry said the public may visit tradelinephilippines.dti.gov.ph or email exports@dti.gov.ph.