DHL Express Philippines is targeting double-digit growth in 2026, banking on the continued rise of Filipino small and medium enterprises (SMEs), growing cross-border trade, and steady demand from the country’s electronics export sector.
Despite economic uncertainties and trade disruptions in some markets, the logistics company remains optimistic about its prospects as more local businesses explore opportunities overseas.
“We are aiming to grow our business consistently,” said Roderick Queppet, vice president for commercial. He said double-digit growth remains an achievable goal this year as Philippine exporters continue to expand their reach.
SMEs have become an increasingly important part of DHL’s business. According to Queppet, smaller enterprises account for about 30 percent of the company’s Philippine operations, while enterprise customers contribute roughly 45 percent. The rest comes from retail and individual customers shipping goods abroad.
“SMEs actually contribute significantly to our growth. You’ll be surprised that a lot of our SMEs are now starting to export to the world through cross-border trading,” he said.
The company has partnered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to help local businesses improve export readiness through training programs, market access initiatives, and logistics support.
DHL also expects strong demand from the semiconductor and electronics industry, one of the country’s largest export earners. At the same time, the company sees growing opportunities for food exporters, particularly producers of coconut-based products and other agricultural goods.
Sarah Meinert, head of DHL’s GoTrade initiative, said expanding free trade agreements are creating new opportunities for Filipino businesses to enter markets beyond their traditional destinations.
“We shouldn’t underestimate the capabilities and the agility of entrepreneurs to find new ways and new markets as well,” she said.
DHL’s GoTrade program aims to reach 600 to 700 Philippine SMEs this year through export education and business training. The initiative focuses on financing, digitalization, trade knowledge, and logistics skills, helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of international commerce.
As more Filipino firms look abroad for growth, DHL expects trade flows and shipping demand to rise alongside them.
