The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is focusing on agricultural products to boost the Philippines' export growth. Key items such as coconut oil and purple yam (*ube*) are identified as critical to this strategy.
Elevating Agricultural Exports Amid Global Challenges
Moving forward, we are ensuring a sharper focus on accelerating the growth of our agricultural sector, ensuring that our high-value agri-products and innovative goods are ready to compete on the global stage.
Maria Cristina A. Roque, Trade Secretary
In a recent statement, Trade Secretary Maria Cristina A. Roque emphasized the resilience of Philippine exporters, highlighting an impressive 7.6% increase in merchandise exports to $7.87 billion in May.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that total exports in the first five months of 2026 reached $37.87 billion, marking a 10.6% year-on-year increase.
Strong demand for coconut oil, particularly from the Netherlands, Malaysia, and the US, has been a significant factor in this growth. However, challenges remain, especially in meeting the rising demand for *ube* and *calamansi*.
Economist Michael L. Ricafort has called for technological investments to enhance agricultural productivity, aiming to improve competitiveness and reduce production costs.
Despite the positive export figures, the trade-in-goods deficit has widened to $5.48 billion due to a surge in imports. To further boost exports, the DTI will host the Exporters’ Fair from July 22 to 26 at the SM Megatrade Hall in Mandaluyong City.