The latest performance extended export growth to 11 consecutive months and marked the third straight month of double-digit gains, underscoring the sector’s resilience amid easing global headwinds, the DTI said in a press release.
From January to November, exports reached $77.4 billion, up 14.5 percent from a year earlier and already more than $4 billion above full-year 2024 levels.
Stronger exports helped narrow the country’s trade deficit by 9.9 percent, as import growth moderated during the period.
Export competitiveness improving
Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the latest data indicate Philippine exporters are gaining traction in international markets.
“The continued rise in our exports shows that Filipino-made products remain competitive worldwide. The remarkable growth in electronics, food products, and consumer goods reflects growing global demand and supports jobs, incomes, and wider opportunities for our exporters,” Roque said.
Export gains in November were broad-based, spanning multiple product categories and markets across the Asia-Pacific, the Americas, and Europe.
Electronics, agri products lead growth
Electronics remained the country’s top export, reaching $4.2 billion, up 50.6 percent year on year. Coconut products rose 27.1 percent, adding more than $70 million, while banana and pineapple juice jumped 38.8 percent and 40 percent, respectively, contributing a combined $46 million.
Gold exports surged 50.7 percent to $181.8 million, while machinery and transport equipment increased 29.4 percent to $317 million. Non-food consumer goods also posted strong gains, led by furniture and fixtures (+65.9 percent), footwear (+28.6 percent), travel goods (+28.3 percent), and garments (+11.2 percent).
Strong demand across key markets
Hong Kong and the United States were the country’s top export markets in November, each accounting for $1.2 billion in shipments.
Exports to the Netherlands and Taiwan more than doubled, adding $330 million combined, while Germany recorded 63.6 percent growth to $295.9 million.
On a year-to-date basis, exports to Canada and Australia tripled to $1.6 billion and $1.7 billion, respectively.
Outlook remains positive
DTI–Export Marketing Bureau Director Bianca Pearl R. Sykimte said improved market access helped support export growth, particularly for agriculture.
“The US reciprocal tariff exemption on key Philippine agriculture products provides a more level playing field for our food exporters,” she said.
With global demand showing signs of recovery, the DTI expects Philippine exports to sustain growth into 2026. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
