Local exporters are banking on the opening of new markets through free-trade agreements (FTAs) and growing demand for the country’s key products to boost the export of goods and services next year.

Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport) president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. said local exporters are gearing up for wider market access in 2026 through the potential signing of multiple FTAs.

Among exporters, there is strong optimism about the prospect of comprehensive economic partnership agreements (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Chile.

“This expands our reach into the Gulf and South America, two dynamic markets where Filipino products and services can thrive,” Ortiz-Luis said during Philexport’s general membership meeting last week.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) earlier indicated that trade deals with both countries would be finalized by next year, with the agreement with the UAE set for signing as early as January.

Ortiz-Luis said the industry is also awaiting the twin FTAs with Canada—one through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the other a bilateral agreement. Both deals are targeted for finalization next year.

These trade agreements are expected to cushion the country’s exports from the persistent uncertainty triggered by the protectionist policies of the United States (US).

Local exporters have been urging the government to ramp up negotiations with other countries to facilitate a more conducive trade policy after the US, the country’s top export market, slapped a 19-percent tariff on Philippine-made goods.

There is, however, some optimism in the industry after the US introduced a new policy that removed tariffs for a number of agricultural exports. The exemptions covered over $1-billion worth of commodities.

Ortiz-Luis said this was a major relief for exporters since it would maintain the competitiveness and demand for the country’s exports like coconuts, processed fruits, and coffee.

Another potential growth driver for exports is the semiconductor and electronics industry, which is poised to grow by up to seven percent this year.

Industry group Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Foundation Inc. (SEIPI) earlier projected that electronic exports could reach up to $47 billion this year despite the threat of US tariffs looming in the background.

The country’s exports of goods and services are expected to reach between $110.8 billion and $113.42 billion this year, well below the initial goal of $163.6 billion.

Total exports are projected to grow between $116.1 billion and $120.22 billion next year, which is a more conservative target compared to the earlier projection of $186.7 billion.

Export targets were revised downward by the Export Development Council (EDC) last week due to uncertainties from US tariffs and global supply chain challenges.

Ortiz-Luis said the new targets are now “more realistic,” but he stressed that the government must do its part to support exporters.

“Philexport has, in fact, received resignations from members closing shop. A clear warning that small businesses need stronger intervention,” he said.

Ortiz-Luis added that many local exporters are being left behind on the global stage due to the government’s minimal support.

“We made it clear that our budget for export development is almost nothing compared to our ASEAN neighbors,” he added.