Exporters in the Philippines are warning of looming business closures as surging fuel costs and persistent supply chain disruptions strain operations, with many firms saying they may last only a few months without urgent government support.
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.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. has backed a proposal to declare a state of calamity to mobilize government resources against the worsening effects of El Niño, saying authorities must act quickly as forecasts point to a potentially severe climate event.
Prime Midstream expects demand for natural gas to remain strong as the Philippines faces growing electricity needs, volatile fuel prices and the challenge of balancing renewable energy growth with reliable power supply.
Japanese Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Ono Sho attended the 82nd Anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings recently at the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, framing his presence as a gesture of friendship spanning the political, defense, economic, and diplomatic spheres.
San Miguel Corp. (SMC) has received recognition from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) for importing nearly USD370 million worth of American agricultural products in 2026, highlighting the Philippines’ importance as a market for US farm exports.