‘MSME support to sustain export growth momentum’

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June 2, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is looking to sustain the country’s export momentum through continued support for exporters, particularly, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), amid global uncertainties and an evolving trade landscape.

“As international trade environment continues to evolve, it is important that our exporters are prepared to adapt to new requirements and challenges. We continue to collaborate closely with industry partners, the private sector and international organizations to help Philippine exporters become more competitive, market-ready and globally connected,” Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said in a statement.

She said the country’s latest export performance reflects the government’s continued efforts to strengthen exporters’ competitiveness and readiness as they navigate changing global market conditions.

Preliminary data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that the country’s merchandise exports grew by six percent to $7.21 billion in April from $6.78 billion in the same month last year.

The higher April export sales were driven mainly by the increase in export earnings from electronics, minerals and agro-based products.

From January to April, total merchandise exports went up by 11 percent to $29.93 billion from $26.93 billion in the same period last year.

Despite the continued growth, the DTI flagged risks, including the ongoing Middle East crisis that continues to exert pressure on oil supply and foreign exchange.

The DTI said these could have mixed effects on exporters depending on their reliance on imported inputs.

To sustain the country’s export momentum, the DTI through the Export Marketing Bureau, continues to help strengthen exporter readiness.

In particular, it is implementing capacity-building initiatives in partnership with the International Trade Centre and the European Union under the Climate Competitiveness Project.

The DTI is also providing export readiness workshops focused on women businesses, as well as training for MSMEs on logistics, customs and digital trade under the Regional Trade for Development initiative and DHL GoTrade.

To bring Philippine exports to new markets, the DTI is intensifying efforts to support MSMEs through Halal certification assistance, as well as the conduct of trade fairs, business matching activities and business missions.

“The DTI continues to monitor global developments that may affect trade and supply chains and work closely with industry stakeholders to strengthen market diversification efforts and support exporters in navigating global uncertainties,” the agency said.