MANILA – Philippine exports climbed 7.9 percent year-on-year in January to USD7.1 billion from USD6.6 billion in the same month last year, sustaining a 13-month growth momentum, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed.

The latest figure marked the longest stretch of expansion in over a year and the highest export level since October 2025.

Electronic products remained the country’s top export, generating more than USD4 billion and accounting for 56.5 percent of total outbound shipments.

Gold followed with USD488.8 million in export receipts, while machinery and transport equipment contributed USD383.2 million.

Manufactured goods lead

By commodity group, manufactured goods comprised the bulk of exports at USD5.6 billion, or 79.3 percent of the total. Mineral products reached USD732.3 million, or 10.3 percent, as nickel ore shipments resumed early this year after weather-related disruptions in late 2025.

Citing industry sources, the Department of Trade and Industry said export volumes of critical minerals rebounded at the start of 2026 due to renewed production and stable global demand.

Agro-based products posted USD573.8 million, representing 8.1 percent of total exports. Fresh banana shipments increased on higher output and firmer demand compared to a year ago, while desiccated coconut exports rose due to stronger year-on-year prices.

US remains top market

The United States retained its position as the Philippines’ largest export market, accounting for USD1.2 billion or 16.4 percent of total shipments. It was followed by Hong Kong (USD1.1 billion, 15.9 percent), Japan (USD871.7 million, 12.3 percent), China (USD691.8 million, 9.8 percent), and South Korea (USD391.8 million, 5.5 percent).

The DTI said more than 70 percent of Philippine exports in 2026 were shipped to markets where the country holds Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Generalized Schemes of Preferences (GSP).

The agency credited the country’s expanded trade access under the administration of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., citing what it described as the most extensive list of FTAs secured in Philippine history.

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said the government aims to build on the strong January performance by deepening market reach, strengthening value chains, and enhancing support for exporters to ensure steady growth throughout the year.