DTI eyes wider global reach as Philippine exports up 35.7% through September 2026

MANILA — Philippine exports grew 35.7% as of September 2026 , a development that the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) attributes to increasing global demand for locally made products and ongoing efforts to expand market access for exporters.

Speaking at the Philippine Exporters’ Trade Exposition & Forum 2026, Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque said the strong export performance reflects the growing acceptance of Philippine products in international markets.

“Exports are up 35.7% by this September, so exports are up. So that’s a good indication that the Philippine products are really accepted now in the global market,” Roque said.

The trade chief said the government continues to work with manufacturers and overseas buyers to address challenges affecting exporters while pursuing opportunities for local products in more international markets.

Roque expressed optimism that the country’s trade prospects would further improve as free trade agreements open new opportunities for Philippine businesses.

“We’re really pushing the local products to really penetrate not just some markets in the global space but in a lot of markets. So we will be seeing a lot of growth pagdating ng free trade agreement, especially in a very important country,” she said.

The DTI chief also assured businesses that government efforts to support both domestic and export-oriented enterprises would continue.

“Tuloy-tuloy pa rin. Whatever we have to do, we just follow the mandate of our president, so we just move forward with whatever we need to do,” Roque said.

She noted that the department continues to connect businesses with potential buyers through its network of trade representatives stationed in 21 countries.

“There’s really a lot of opportunities there,” she added.

Aside from exports, Roque said consumers can expect stability in the prices of basic necessities and prime commodities (BNPC), noting that there will be no price increases for the covered products until the end of the year.

“For BNPC, there’s still no price increase up to December 31, 2026,” she said.

Roque said discussions with manufacturers and retailers regarding the suggested retail prices of the Noche Buena products are still ongoing.

For now, she said, the department remains focused on helping Philippine products gain a stronger foothold overseas through initiatives such as the exporters’ exposition.

“We really need to push Philippine products in the global space,” Roque said.