Trade
12 reports
Economic Brief - June 2026
The Philippine economy contends with faster inflation and growth slowdown amid achieving an upper-middle-income status. Strict digital asset regulation, a proposed United States call center onshoring policy, and potential tariff hikes from labor compliance issues pose potential industry challenges.
Economic Brief - May 2026
While inflation and surging bond yields strain the Philippine economy, emerging industrial corridors and international economic pacts in digital infrastructure and critical minerals provide critical strategic growth channels for Philippine enterprises.
Luzon Economic Corridor Draws Additional International Partners, Institutionalized Pax Silica Framework
The Luzon Economic Corridor gained new international partners under the US-led Pax Silica Framework, advancing plans for AI, semiconductor, and infrastructure investments, though regulatory disputes, implementation challenges, and uncertain political continuity may slow long-term development.
Economic Brief - March 2026
Energy shocks caused by the Middle East conflict pushed Philippine inflation to 4.1 percent and interest rates to 4.5 percent. Reduced purchasing power, supply chain disruptions, and threatened overseas Filipino worker remittances compound these inflation risks, downgrading economic forecasts.
Shipment, Travel Disruptions Continue Following Outbreak of US-Iran Conflict; Oil Prices Expected to Increase in Following Weeks
Joint US-Israel strikes on Iran have killed hundreds, including senior leaders, triggering regional retaliation. The conflict has surged oil prices toward USD 120 per barrel and disrupted global shipping. The Philippines faces rising fuel costs and risks to over one million OFWs.
Recommended Reading: Trade uncertainty returns
Manila Times and Reuters report renewed global trade uncertainty after the United States Supreme Court struck down select Trump-era tariffs.
The Philippines and UAE Enter Into a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
The Philippine-United Arab Emirates trade pact removes tariffs on ninety-five percent of exports. It expands market access for electronics, machinery, and digital services, offering a strategic growth opportunity for Philippine enterprises expanding operations into the Gulf region.
Strong Export Performance Pushes PH Trade Deficit Down to USD 3.51 Billion in November 2025
The Philippines recorded a narrower trade deficit in November 2025, driven by a 21.3 percent surge in exports, particularly electronics. However, analysts remain cautious as geopolitical risks, oil price volatility, and domestic corruption issues may temper trade growth in 2026.
October 2025 Trade Performance Lead to Narrower Trade Deficit at USD 3.83 Billion
The Philippine trade deficit narrowed to USD 3.83 billion in October 2025, driven by peso depreciation and electronic exports. Despite corruption probes, enterprises anticipate sustained trade momentum.
Trade Deficit at USD 3.54 Billion in August 2025, Lowest in Six Months
The Philippine trade deficit dropped to a six-month low of USD 3.54 billion in August 2025. Weak domestic demand and lower commodity prices triggered a 4.9 percent decline in imports, while export growth slowed to 4.6 percent as frontloading activity ahead of US tariffs ended.
July 2025 Exports Bolster PH External Trade Growth, Pending US Tariff Impacts
Philippine exports rose 17 percent in July 2025, driven by semiconductor demand and artificial intelligence growth. Despite looming United States tariffs, trade diversification mitigates risks. Large enterprises should monitor shifting export dynamics.
Philippines Set to Receive 20 Percent Tariff in August, President Marcos Heads to the US for Talks on Economic and Security Cooperation
US President Donald Trump announced a 20 percent general tariff and a 50 percent copper tariff on Philippine imports starting August 1. Enterprises should expect higher costs in export sectors like apparel and monitor coming bilateral talks for potential trade concessions.