Philippine exports in January rose by 7.9% to $7.1 billion from $6.6 billion in the same month last year, marking the longest expansion streak in over a year and the highest export level since October 2025.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that electronic products remained the country’s top export, generating more than $4 billion and accounting for 56.5% of total shipments. Gold followed with $488.8 million, while machinery and transport equipment contributed $383.2 million.
By commodity group, manufactured goods comprised the majority of exports at $5.6 billion (79.3%), while mineral products accounted for $732.3 million (10.3%), boosted by resumed nickel ore shipments after late-2025 weather disruptions. Agro-based products posted $573.8 million (8.1%), with fresh banana shipments and desiccated coconut exports rising on stronger demand and prices.
Top Export Markets (January 2026)
- United States: $1.2 billion (16.4%)
- Hong Kong: $1.1 billion (15.9%)
- Japan: $871.7 million (12.3%)
- China: $691.8 million (9.8%)
- South Korea: $391.8 million (5.5%)
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) credited the sustained growth to the country’s aggressive expansion of market access, noting that over 70% of exports were shipped to markets covered by Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Generalized Schemes of Preferences (GSP).
“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. By prioritizing high-impact bilateral and multilateral deals, the PBBM administration has effectively opened doors for Filipino businesses, surpassing the trade-reaching milestones of all previous administrations,” the DTI said.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the government will build on this performance by deepening market reach, strengthening value chains, and enhancing exporter support for “steady growth throughout the year.”