The Philippines is reinforcing efforts to expand its free trade network and boost domestic industries after the United States imposed new reciprocal tariffs and maintained security-related duties on key products, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque told a Senate panel on Wednesday.
Roque said the US remains a major economic partner, ranking as the country’s third-largest trading partner, top export market and fifth-largest import source.
Total Philippine-US trade reached $20.3 billion in 2025, with a surplus of about $4 billion in favor of the Philippines. The US is also the fourth-largest source of foreign direct investments, with $111 million in 2025.
Washington on Aug. 7, 2025 rolled out country-specific reciprocal tariffs covering 69 nations.
It also continues to apply Section 232 tariffs on copper, steel, aluminum, and automotive products, with investigations ongoing for trucks, aircraft, timber, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and critical minerals.
“These developments highlight the urgency of strengthening Philippine industries and export sectors to stay competitive,” Roque said.
The DTI is also pursuing wider trade access, citing the recently concluded Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the United Arab Emirates and ongoing negotiations with the European Union and Chile.
On US trade relations, Roque said discussions are continuing under the Framework on Reciprocal Trade, while the Philippines is pushing for a long-term bilateral free trade agreement.
She noted, however, that talks remain confidential, as all participants are bound by a non-disclosure agreement.
Roque assured lawmakers that government agencies are coordinating to help local industries cope with the impact of US tariffs while seeking alternative markets for exporters.
