Philippine merchandise exports reached a record $8.8 billion in June 2026 as growing demand for semiconductors used in artificial intelligence, Internet of Things devices, and hyperscale data centers boosted electronics shipments.
Preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that exports rose 24.1% from $7.1 billion in June 2025. It was the highest monthly export value since the agency began its data series in 1991 and the fastest annual growth recorded over the past 12 months.
Electronic products generated $5.25 billion, accounting for 59.9% of total exports during the month.
Revenues from components and semiconductors increased 33.4%, reflecting increased global investment in AI infrastructure and data centers.
The figures underlined the Philippines’ continued dependence on electronics and semiconductor manufacturing for export growth.
Manufactured goods collectively accounted for 82.2% of June exports and expanded 30.2% year on year, nearly four times the growth recorded in May.
Other mineral products and manufactured goods also contributed to the increase.
Exports of agro-based products delivered mixed results. Coconut oil shipments rose 12% to $232.9 million, while banana exports fell 20.8% amid pest infestations, weaker production, and increased competition.
The government is preparing to negotiate with Japan for improved preferential tariff treatment for Philippine bananas under the Philippines-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement.
For the first half of 2026, merchandise exports reached a record $46.72 billion, up 13.1% from $41.31 billion in the same period last year.
The United States remained the country’s biggest export market in June, buying $1.76 billion worth of goods, or 20.1% of total exports. Hong Kong followed with $1.34 billion, China with $1 billion, Japan with $990.16 million, and Singapore with $508.18 million.
Nine of the Philippines’ 10 largest export markets posted double-digit growth. Japan was the only market among the top 10 to record a single-digit increase.
“The historic export performance is a testament to the hard work, resilience and dedication of our Filipino exporters. Despite uncertainties in global trade, they continue to invest in their businesses, create opportunities for our people and proudly carry the Philippine brand into markets around the world,” Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) secretary Cristina Roque said.
Roque said the DTI would use free trade agreements, trade shows, and investor and buyer linkages to expand market access for Philippine companies.
“We will continuously champion and assist our exporters to ensure that their hard work translates to a broader and stronger presence in the global market,” she said.
