The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is accelerating its push to transform the Philippine coconut industry into high-value product streams following a 34.4 percent surge in coconut exports that reached $3.6 billion in 2025, according to the agency. The robust performance of the sector accounted for nearly half of the country’s total agro-based exports last year and contributed significantly to record national export revenues of $84.48 billion, driving ongoing economic growth momentum into 2026.
DTI Strategy for High-Value Coconut Products and Farmer Support
To capitalize on the export surge, the DTI is connecting local coconut enterprises with international buyers through targeted export promotion, business-matching activities, outbound trade missions, and the global network of Philippine Trade and Investment Centers, according to official statements. Around 300 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are participating in the DTI–Bagong Pilipinas Coconut Philippines Trade Fair to pursue product development, direct market linkages, and commercial partnerships.
These commercial initiatives complement government support programs such as the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan. DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque emphasized during the Aug. 26 trade fair opening that the sector remains an economic lifeline for 2.8 million Filipino farmers. According to Roque, the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is fully committed to empowering local producers through wider market access, enterprise support, and market diversification.
Did You Know? Coconut products accounted for nearly half of the Philippines’ total agro-based exports in 2025, serving as an economic lifeline for 2.8 million Filipino farmers across the country.
Broader Agricultural Demand and Trade Expansion
Exporters are also positioned to benefit from the country’s expanding network of free trade agreements, including recently concluded negotiations with Chile and ongoing talks with the European Union and Canada.
The official trade fair opening at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City brought together industry leaders, diplomats, entrepreneurs, farmers, researchers, and government partners. Participants included Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Roger V. Navarro and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) CEO Dr. Dexter R. Buted, alongside representatives from industry groups such as the United Coconut Association of the Philippines and the Virgin Coconut Oil Manufacturers and Traders Association of the Philippines.
Future Outlook for Coconut Exporters
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the DTI to accelerate its push into high-value coconut products?
The DTI intensified its efforts following a 34.4 percent surge in coconut exports, which reached $3.6 billion in 2025.
How many Filipino farmers depend on the coconut sector?
The coconut sector serves as an economic lifeline for approximately 2.8 million Filipino farmers, according to government figures.
What specific programs and events are supporting these coconut enterprises?
Initiatives include the DTI–Bagong Pilipinas Coconut Philippines Trade Fair featuring 300 MSMEs, targeted export promotions, business-matching activities, outbound trade missions, and the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan.
How will expanded free trade agreements and higher-value processing impact local farming communities and export revenues in the coming years?