Philippine exports rose 8 percent in February 2026 to $7.33 billion, marking the 14th consecutive month of year-on-year growth and the highest year-to-date value on record, government data showed on Friday.
The total export value in the first two months of the year reached $14.47 billion, up 8.3 percent from the same period in 2025. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, this represents the highest year-to-date export level since 1991.
The country incurred a trade deficit of $3.68 billion in February, as imports surged 12.6 percent to $11.01 billion.
Electronics remained the primary driver of the country’s trade performance, accounting for 57.7 percent of total exports. The sector grew by $718.92 million to $4.23 billion in February. Other top contributors included machinery and transport equipment at $415.22 million and gold at $337.55 million.
Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque said the figures indicate resilient demand despite shifting global economic conditions.
“February’s export performance reflects sustained demand in key sectors, particularly electronics. The government remains committed to ensuring the sustained growth of the semiconductors and electronics industry by effectively implementing our industry roadmap. At the same time, we will continue to pursue opportunities to expand market access and support exporters in adapting to dynamic global developments,” Roque said.
Manufactured goods comprised the bulk of shipments at $5.96 billion, followed by mineral products at $615.26 million and agro-based products at $608.06 million.
Industry leaders attributed the electronics boost to global requirements for semiconductor components used in emerging technologies. In the agricultural sector, a 17.3-percent jump in fruits and vegetables was driven by canned pineapple and juice, which offset a decline in fresh banana exports.
Coconut subsector growth hit 6.5 percent as demand for desiccated coconut countered lower coconut oil shipments.
The United States was the top destination for Philippine goods in February, receiving $1.41 billion or 19.3 percent of the total. Hong Kong followed with $1.17 billion, while Japan, China and the Netherlands rounded out the top 5 markets.
The Department of Trade and Industry said it is monitoring global logistics and trade developments to assist exporters with market diversification and supply chain coordination.
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