Philippines Trade, Exports and Imports

Historically, the Philippines have been an important centre for commerce for centuries for its ethnic minority, namely, the Chinese who were also its first occupants. The archipelago has also been visited by Arabs and Indians for the purpose of trading in the first and early second millennium. As of 21st century, the country is member in several international trade organizations including the APEC, ASEAN and WTO. As of U.S. Department of Commerce data, in 2008, two-way U.S. merchandise trade with the Philippines stood at $17 billion.



There are significant opportunities of export promotion due to trade liberalization. However, it is important to note that the emergence of low-wage export economies and intensifying global competition are the biggest threats to the Philippines export industry. The total exports fell to $37.2 billion in 2009 from $48.2 billion 2008. The country also imported lesser goods valuing $45.8 billion in 2009 as compared to $61.14 billion 2008. 

 Philippines's exchange rate in Pesos/$


The Philippines Imports Commodities

The major import commodities of the Philippines are:

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      Electronic products
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      Mineral fuels
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      Machinery and transport equipment
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      Iron and steel
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      Textile fabrics
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      Grains
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      Chemicals
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      Plastic

The Philippines Imports Partners

The following graph depicts the share of various import partners of the Philippines as of 2009:



Philippines's import partners (2009)
The Philippines Exports Commodities

The major export commodities of the Philippines are:

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      Semiconductors and electronic products
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      Transport equipment
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      Garments
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      Copper products
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      Petroleum products
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      Coconut oil
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      Fruits

The Philippines Exports Partners

The following graph depicts the share of various export partners of the Philippines as of 2009:



Philippines Export partners 2009