Philippine ube exports hit USD 3.06M in 2025 amid global demand

Rising international demand for authentic Asian flavors, natural food colorants, and diverse food applications has propelled Philippine ube and ube-based product exports to USD 3.06 million in 2025.

The growth signals the crop’s transition from a local staple to a premium export ingredient, with key markets including the Middle East, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy.

Preliminary data from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) indicate steady growth in processed ube forms, including powder, puree, halaya, and flavor extracts.

Industry monitoring also shows strong interest from foreign manufacturers in incorporating ube into ice cream, baked goods, confectionery, specialty beverages, and ready-to-eat desserts.

A report from Mintel’s Global New Products Database (GNPD) recorded 359 product launches worldwide featuring ube across various markets.

The Philippines accounts for the largest share of these launches, primarily in cakes, pastries, sweet goods, and dairy-based products such as ice cream and frozen yogurt.

Japan, China, and the United States have emerged as key innovation markets for ube-based products abroad.

In Japan, ube appears in chilled and shelf-stable desserts, while in China it is incorporated into cakes, pastries, and malt and hot beverages.

In the United States, ube has found its way into dairy-based ice cream, frozen yogurt, sweet biscuits, and cookies.

DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the growing global adoption of ube opens opportunities for Filipino exporters to enter higher-value market segments.

She noted it also demonstrates the country’s capacity to transform a traditional agricultural product into a competitive, value-added export.

“Behind every ube product enjoyed overseas are Filipino farmers and MSMEs whose dedication sustains their families and rural communities. That is why we continue to strengthen support for the sector by improving quality standards and reinforcing supply chains, so Philippine ube can compete confidently and sustainably in international markets,” Roque said.

The DTI, through its Export Marketing Bureau (EMB), provides exporters with trade promotion assistance, market intelligence, and capacity-building programs to help them access and expand in external markets.

Exporters seeking information on export requirements, market opportunities, and trade promotion programs may contact the DTI-EMB at exports@dti.gov.ph.

(News5 Photo)