DTI pushing for faster export growth

In 2025, Philippine exports grew more than 15 percent to a record $84.48 billion, led by electronics and semiconductors.For this year, Roque said the DTI is looking to boost agricultural exports, capitalizing on rising global demand for products like ube and calamansi.The agency is working with regional offices to identify other potential export “stars,” Roque said.Beyond emerging products, growth will likely continue to be driven by traditional exports like electronics and semiconductors, machinery and transport equipment, and agricultural commodities such as coconut products and bananas, Roque noted.DTI also wants to scale up other product categories.Roque added that a major push for exports is expected once free trade agreements with several countries are concluded later this year, calling the deals a priority for the Marcos administration.The government is on track to sign a record 23 trade deals, with talks yielding positive results so far.Despite ongoing disruptions from the Middle East crisis, Roque said Philippine exporters continue shipping to other markets, and the DTI stands ready to assist them.The goal, she said, is to make the Philippines an agile export powerhouse.