The Philippines’ agricultural trade in February 2026 posted modest growth, but persistent import dependence kept the sector firmly in deficit, highlighting ongoing structural challenges in domestic food production.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is stepping up support for exporters while keeping a close watch on global developments that could disrupt trade and logistics, as Philippine exports continue their growth streak.
The Philippines’ external trade in goods rose 10.7 percent year on year to USD18.34 billion in February 2026, driven by solid export growth but a faster expansion in imports that widened the trade deficit.
The Philippines’ agricultural trade deficit narrowed sharply in December, buoyed by a strong rebound in farm exports and a pullback in imports, offering a late-year boost to the country’s external trade position.
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) opened 2026 with solid investment momentum, approving 18 new projects worth P12.86 billion during its first Board meeting of the year.
The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and Oman's Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) have identified four priority industries for deeper investment cooperation, as both countries seek to strengthen trade and position their economic zones as complementary gateways to regional markets.
The Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday that 56 boxes of Davao durian, weighing 1.08 metric tons and worth around P183,000 ($3,000), have been sent to Oman. The shipment from Engseng Food Products of Davao City is bound for Jeel Almaaly International in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate.
Petron Corp. reported a 28 percent fall in first-half net income to P3.8 billion from P5.3 billion a year earlier, the company said Tuesday. The decline was mainly due to Middle East tensions pushing crude, import and freight costs higher. Dubai crude averaged $91 a barrel, up 27 percent year-on-year.
Singapore-based Universal Success Enterprises Limited (USEL) is exploring investments in logistics parks and data centers in the Philippines, underscoring growing foreign interest in sectors benefiting from the country's expanding digital economy and infrastructure buildout.