Philippine exports opened the year on a strong note, rising 7.9 percent in January to $7.1 billion from $6.6 billion a year earlier, extending a growth run that has now lasted 13 consecutive months and marking the country’s highest export haul since October 2025.
Figures released by the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that electronic products continued to anchor outbound trade, generating more than $4 billion in export receipts and accounting for 56.5 percent of total shipments during the month
Gold emerged as the second-largest export with $488.8 million in earnings, followed by machinery and transport equipment at $383.2 million, underscoring steady demand across both traditional and higher-value manufacturing segments.
Manufactured goods dominated overall exports at $5.6 billion, or 79.3 percent of the total, while mineral products contributed $732.3 million, equivalent to 10.3 percent. The rebound in mineral shipments came after nickel ore exports resumed early this year, following weather-related disruptions that constrained output in late 2025.
Citing industry sources, the Department of Trade and Industry said export volumes of critical minerals recovered at the start of 2026 on the back of renewed production and stable global demand.
Agro-based products posted $573.8 million in export revenues, representing 8.1 percent of total shipments. The DTI noted that fresh banana exports climbed on higher output and firmer demand compared with a year earlier, while desiccated coconut shipments benefited from stronger year-on-year prices.
By destination, the United States remained the Philippines’ top export market with $1.2 billion, or 16.4 percent of total shipments. Hong Kong followed closely at $1.1 billion, or 15.9 percent, while Japan accounted for $871.7 million, or 12.3 percent. China took in $691.8 million, or 9.8 percent, and South Korea rounded out the top five with $391.8 million, or 5.5 percent.
The DTI pointed to the country’s expanding trade network as a key driver of sustained export growth. Based on 2026 data, more than 70 percent of Philippine exports were shipped to markets covered by Free Trade Agreements and Generalized Schemes of Preferences.
“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.,” the department said, adding that recent bilateral and multilateral deals have widened market access for Filipino exporters beyond levels reached by previous administrations.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the government intends to build on January’s performance by deepening market reach, strengthening domestic value chains, and expanding exporter support programs to ensure steady growth throughout the year.