Philippines: Exporter Guide
The U.S. continues to be the Philippines’ number one supplier of agricultural products, and the Philippines is its 9th largest market in the world. In 2013, export sales increased six percent to a record $2.5 billion. Despite congestion at the port of Manila and other distribution challenges, sales are up 15 percent from January to October 2014 and are expected to reach $2.9 billion by the end of the year. The top ten U.S. exports by value through October 2014 were wheat, soybean meal, dairy products, red meats, poultry meat, prepared food, processed fruit & vegetables, sugar, sweeteners & beverage bases, snack foods, and fresh fruit. Competition has greatly intensified and new challenges have emerged for U.S. exporters due to bilateral and regional free-trade agreements. Good sales opportunities abound because of the robust Philippine economy, steady growth in the country’s retail, foodservice and food processing sectors, and consumer familiarity with American brands. U.S. exports of consumer oriented food & beverage products remain particularly strong and are the best prospects for future growth.
