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Monday, February 17, 2025
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Monday, February 17, 2025

PH exports of unmanufactured tobacco decline 16%

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The Philippines’ exports of unmanufactured tobacco declined 16.51 percent in 2024, according to the National Tobacco Administration (NTA).

Data from the NTA showed that the country exported 17.8 million kilograms of unmanufactured tobacco in 2024, valued at $121.57 million.

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This was 16.51-percent lower than 2023’s exports of 20.74 million kg.

NTA deputy administrator for operations Nestor Casela said stakeholders in the tobacco industry expressed concern over the downward trend in exports.

Despite these challenges, the Philippines remains a key exporter of unmanufactured tobacco, which is primarily used for local cigarette and cigar manufacturing, as well as for processed leaf and cigarette exports.

Universal Leaf Philippines Inc. (ULPI) led the export market, shipping 14.14 million kg. of unmanufactured tobacco, valued at $111.97 million in 2024.

JTI Asia Manufacturing Inc. followed as the second-largest exporter, with 1.88 million kg. valued at $3.11 million.

Continental Leaf was the third-largest exporter, shipping 747,210 kg. worth $3.9 million, while Tobacco Manufacturers Inc. (TMI) ranked fourth with 636,120.68 kg. valued at $1.85 million.

PMFTC Inc. exported 315,026.55 kg. worth $795,761, making it the fifth-largest exporter in 2024.

Despite the overall decline in tobacco exports, the NTA expressed hope that industry stakeholders would find ways to adapt and recover, especially given the continued demand for tobacco in both the local and international markets.

Meanwhile, the Philippines also saw a 66.32-percent decrease in unmanufactured tobacco imports to 30.59 million kg. in 2024 from 50.88 million kg. in 2023.

Industry estimates suggest that imports are expected to rebound in 2025, with a projected increase to 51.1 million kg.

“The declining export and import numbers point to ongoing challenges in the tobacco industry, but with potential for recovery in the near future,” Casella said.

He said the NTA and other stakeholders are likely to closely monitor these trends as they work toward stabilizing the sector and improving export opportunities.

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