MANILA: The Philippines' merchandise exports surged 27.8% year-on-year to US$9.11 billion in August 2026, hitting a record high in 35 years, according to preliminary data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Exports for the January-to-August period reached US$64.04 billion, a 14.8% rise from the US$55.80 billion recorded in the same period of 2025.
Electronics power the surge
Electronic products drove the August surge, accounting for US$6.20 billion — 68.1% of total exports for the month. Other mineral products followed at US$393.54 million (4.3%), while gold shipments posted US$321.27 million (3.5%).
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque said the performance showed Filipino exporters competing strongly on the global stage. "This 35-year high builds on the sustained export growth we have achieved since last year, proving that the international market is ready and eager for Philippine products," she said in a statement.
Key markets
The United States remained the Philippines' largest export market, receiving US$2.17 billion worth of goods in August, or 23.8% of total exports. Hong Kong followed at US$1.57 billion, with China at US$1.05 billion, Japan at US$704.49 million and Taiwan at US$516.01 million.
The DTI added that it was monitoring supply and logistical challenges in the agro-processed export sectors and was seeking to boost export sales through trade promotions and overseas trade offices.
Sources: GMA News Online
Exports for the January-to-August period reached US$64.04 billion, a 14.8% rise from the US$55.80 billion recorded in the same period of 2025.
Electronics power the surge
Electronic products drove the August surge, accounting for US$6.20 billion — 68.1% of total exports for the month. Other mineral products followed at US$393.54 million (4.3%), while gold shipments posted US$321.27 million (3.5%).
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque said the performance showed Filipino exporters competing strongly on the global stage. "This 35-year high builds on the sustained export growth we have achieved since last year, proving that the international market is ready and eager for Philippine products," she said in a statement.
Key markets
The United States remained the Philippines' largest export market, receiving US$2.17 billion worth of goods in August, or 23.8% of total exports. Hong Kong followed at US$1.57 billion, with China at US$1.05 billion, Japan at US$704.49 million and Taiwan at US$516.01 million.
The DTI added that it was monitoring supply and logistical challenges in the agro-processed export sectors and was seeking to boost export sales through trade promotions and overseas trade offices.
Sources: GMA News Online
