PHILIPPINES — Philippine merchandise exports surged to a 35-year high of US$9.11 billion in August 2026, jumping 27.8 percent from the same month last year. The performance marks the 20th consecutive month of year-on-year growth, according to preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority.
A Record-Breaking Month for Philippine Trade
The August figure was nearly US$2 billion higher than the US$8.16 billion recorded in August 2025, making it the highest monthly export value since records began in 1991. From January to August 2026, merchandise exports reached US$64.04 billion, up 14.8 percent from US$55.80 billion in the same period last year.
Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque welcomed the record performance, emphasizing that the Department of Trade and Industry will continue providing strategic support to help more Philippine businesses maximize opportunities. She noted that Filipino exporters have demonstrated their capability to compete and succeed globally, building on sustained growth since last year.
Electronics Drive the Surge
Electronic products led the August increase, posting a US$2.32 billion year-on-year gain, the largest among commodity groups. They remained the country's top export at US$6.20 billion, accounting for 68.1 percent of total exports during the month. The sector benefited from sustained global demand linked to artificial intelligence and data centers.
Other mineral products followed at US$393.54 million, or 4.3 percent of total exports, while gold reached US$321.27 million, or 3.5 percent. Gold and electronic equipment and parts also recorded year-on-year increases of US$41.83 million and US$32.09 million, respectively, adding momentum to the overall performance.
Manufactured Goods and Top Markets
Manufactured goods accounted for the largest share of August exports at US$7.69 billion, or 84.4 percent of the total. Mineral products contributed US$800.62 million, or 8.8 percent, while agro-based products reached US$455.26 million, or 5.0 percent of total shipments.
The United States remained the Philippines' largest export market, receiving US$2.17 billion worth of goods, equivalent to 23.8 percent of total exports. It was followed by Hong Kong at US$1.57 billion, China at US$1.05 billion, Japan at US$704.49 million, and Taiwan at US$516.01 million.
Challenges and Market Expansion Efforts
While electronics drove much of the increase, some agriculture and agro-processed export sectors continued to face supply and logistical challenges. The DTI is monitoring these conditions and working with the private sector to address concerns and strengthen resilience across affected industries.
To help exporters find new buyers and diversify markets, the DTI-Export Marketing Bureau continued its overseas promotion activities in August. Eleven Philippine food companies joined the country's first national participation in Fine Food Australia, which opened in Melbourne on August 31, showcasing halal-certified and premium products to buyers from Australia and Oceania.
Secretary Roque stressed that trade promotion must lead to real sales, repeat orders, and long-term partnerships for exporters. She reaffirmed the DTI's commitment to helping businesses meet global standards and establish a Philippine brand that reflects international trust in Filipino products.
