Philippine exporters should prioritize producing and selling higher-value goods instead of simply increasing shipment volumes, as the country seeks to strengthen its position in global markets and maximize the benefits of free trade agreements, the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (PHILEXPORT) said.

Speaking during PHILEXPORT’s third-quarter General Membership Meeting, president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said the country’s export sector remains resilient despite global economic uncertainty, with merchandise exports rising 10.6 percent from January to May 2026.

Electronics continue to account for more than half of total merchandise exports, reinforcing the Philippines’ role in global manufacturing supply chains. Ortiz-Luis, however, said the country should expand into products that generate greater value and higher returns.

“Our objective should not only be to export more products but to export higher-value products, strengthen domestic supply chains and increase Filipino participation in global production networks,” he said.

He identified processed food and beverages, coconut-based wellness products, cacao, coffee, ube, premium agricultural products, furniture, home décor, marine products, automotive components, industrial manufacturing, and creative industries as sectors with strong export potential. He also noted that information technology and business process management services continue to support steady growth in services exports.

Ortiz-Luis said global supply chain realignments and geopolitical tensions are creating opportunities for the Philippines to attract more production, but warned that the country must improve competitiveness by lowering business costs and making trade more reliable.

“While the Philippines boasts of certain advantages particularly a young and trainable workforce and strategic geographic location, these advantages must be supported by reforms that reduce costs and improve reliability,” he said.

He also urged exporters, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises, to make better use of existing trade agreements by understanding rules of origin, documentation requirements and technical standards.

“For exporters, especially smaller enterprises, the question is not whether agreements are signed. The question is whether Filipino companies can successfully enter and compete in those markets,” Ortiz-Luis said.

He added that non-tariff barriers, including sanitary and phytosanitary requirements, certification, traceability, and varying import rules, continue to limit market access for Philippine exporters, particularly those in agriculture and food processing.

PHILEXPORT said it will continue assisting exporters through market briefings, trade promotion programs, and policy advocacy to help businesses expand their global reach.