The Philippines’ export sector posted a record monthly performance in March 2026, driven largely by sustained global demand for electronics used in emerging technologies.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed export sales reached $8.17 billion in March, the highest since the International Merchandise Trade Statistics series began in 1991. The figure marked a 20.4% increase from $6.78 billion in the same month last year.
For the first quarter, total exports rose to $22.70 billion, up 12.7% year-on-year, reflecting continued momentum in the country’s external trade.
Electronics remained the dominant driver, accounting for $4.82 billion or 59% of total exports.
The segment’s growth continues to be underpinned by global demand for semiconductor components used in artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and electric vehicles, reinforcing the Philippines’ role in the global electronics value chain, particularly in assembly, testing, and packaging.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) secretary Cristina Roque attributed the performance to a shift toward higher-value, technology-driven exports and expanded market access.
“March’s export performance demonstrates that the government’s drive towards higher value products in high-performing industries like electronics while expanding market opportunities with targeted and strategic trade and investment promotion initiatives are helping exporters adapt to evolving global conditions and translating to export gains,” she said.
Outside electronics, exports showed mixed results. Machinery and transport equipment, along with mineral products, posted gains, while some traditional exports such as coconut oil and other manufactured goods declined amid softer global demand.
The United States remained the country’s top export destination at $1.40 billion, followed by Hong Kong, Japan, and China, all of which posted double-digit growth.
Despite the strong performance, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) flagged risks from global uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions affecting shipping routes. The agency said it is working with industry players to diversify markets, adjust supply chains, and provide market intelligence to exporters.
To support smaller exporters, the DTI is also rolling out a P3-billion Export Business Expansion Fund, aimed at financing modernization and capacity expansion, particularly for firms affected by disruptions in the Middle East.
