The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it is confident that its 2026 investment and export goals are within reach, citing stronger momentum across economic zones, manufacturing and trade.
Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque said the agency has set a P1 trillion investment registration target this year under the Board of Investments (BOI). While renewable energy fueled approvals in recent years, registrations in 2026 are expected to be led by mineral processing, infrastructure including digital projects, and high-value manufacturing.
Roque, who also chairs the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), said she is optimistic the agency will meet its P300 billion investment target for the year. The goal is 15 percent higher than the P261 billion approved in 2024. Since 2022, PEZA has recorded an average annual growth rate of 23 percent, reflecting sustained investor interest.
For 2026, manufacturing is projected to account for 60 percent of PEZA-approved investments, followed by ecozone development at 25 percent and IT and business process management services at 15 percent.
Foreign direct investment is expected from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, South Korea, Singapore, China and Taiwan.
On the trade front, the Philippines aims to generate between USD116 billion and USD120 billion in goods and services exports under the Philippine Development Plan. Electronics and IT-business process management are seen anchoring growth, along with key agricultural exports such as coconut, banana and pineapple.
Garments, footwear, travel goods and personal care products are also emerging as stronger contributors.
Roque said the government will prioritize the full implementation of previously registered projects to ensure they move into commercial operations and deliver measurable economic gains by 2026.
